Dexter Scott Raney

Dexter Scott Raney passed away unexpectedly on September 14, 2023. At 9 years old, he was just shy of his golden birthday. He was born on October 10, 2013. Dex was lovingly referred to as “Bubba” by his close family members. He was born to his devoted parents Aubrey (Rhyner) and Benjamin Tyler Raney in Avon, Indiana.

Dex was a very happy and chubby baby. However, at only 6 months old, he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and epilepsy as a result of migrational dysplasia. That resulted in him being quadriplegic and non-verbal. Regardless of these incredible challenges, Dex was truly a light for his family who loved him immensely. In his 9 short years he made this world a better place. He inspired others to truly grasp what’s most important in life.

Dexter was full of joy, always smiling, and adored cuddles. He was a huge flirt, especially with the pretty nurses. His brown curly hair was known as being the “curls that get the girls” and his lashes were always the envy of all the ladies. He loved being outdoors, feeling the breeze on his face, watching leaves fall, and being one with nature. Trips to the zoo were always a hit with Dex because he loved watching animals play. He treasured and adored ‘Dex’s girls’: his mom, sisters, grandmothers, and aunts.

Dexter was the world’s biggest Mickey Mouse fan. Dexter watched and listened to Mickey sometimes around the clock. He got the biggest kick out of Donald Duck and Huey, Dewey, and Louie’s demeanor, and mischief always made him laugh. The Mickey Mouse “Hot Dog Song” will help sustain the family as a reminder that this is not goodbye, but “So Long For Now”.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Gregory Rhyner; maternal great grandparents, Dolores West, Mark Rhyner, Beverly & Charles Cloe; paternal great grandfather, Benjiman Marshel Raney.

Survivors include his parents Aubrey and Benjamin Tyler Raney; siblings, Adyson Cranfill, David Raney, and Dakota Raney; paternal grandparents, Benjamin Scott and Robin Raney; maternal grandmother, Deanna Cloe; great grandparents; Helen Raney, Carol Graham, Kenneth and Donna Graham; Aunt, Olivia Raney; Great Aunts, Pamela Olmstead, Stephanie Eldridge, Sharon Raney, and Joanne Graham and Uncle, Andrew Rhyner; Great Uncles, Kevin Raney, Kelly Graham, Kevin Graham, and Shawn Eldridge.

Dexter Scott Raney’s Life Celebration® Visitation will be held at the Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, 39 East High Street, Mooresville.  Visitation will be on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, 4 to 7 p.m., with services following at 7 p.m.  The committal service will begin at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, in the West Newton Cemetery.  You are encouraged to wear your favorite Mickey Mouse attire to Dex’s service.  Visit www.CarlisleBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.  

Although Dex's medical issues were complex and lifelong, this loss was completely unexpected, and as one might imagine, devastating. The family is asking that donations be made in lieu of flowers to help offset the need for funeral and memorial expenses. Anything donated will be used specifically for this purpose. If you feel so inclined, please consider helping Dex's family in this extremely difficult time.  Dex's GoFundMe   In addition, please feel free to share any words of encouragement. They mean so much to all of us! ❤️