Pastor Donald W. Rackley

Remembering Donald Wray Rackley

August 11, 1942 – October 30, 2026

Donald Wray Rackley was born on August 11, 1942, in Gracemont, Oklahoma, to Al and Esther Rackley. He was the third of twelve children. At the age of 12, Don left home and began working for local farmers to help provide for his brothers and sisters. During this time, he lived in various homes. His early years were marked by responsibility, hard work, and a deep commitment to helping his family.

At the age of 18, Don became a Christian and sensed God's call to ministry. He pursued that calling by attending Bible college, earning his bachelor's degree from Garland College in Garland, Texas, in May 1967. After college, Don worked as a supervisor at Texas Instruments before beginning his pastoral ministry at a church in Cloverdale, Indiana. His journey into ministry would become the defining work of his life.

Don later served at Calvary Bible Church in Milford, Illinois, then Westminster Presbyterian Church in Paxton, Illinois, where he served for 21 years. During his years of ministry in Milford and Paxton, Don earned his education degree from Illinois State University in 1973 and taught elementary and middle school from 1969 to 1976. He continued his theological education, earning a master's degree in Ministry from Moody Bible Institute in May 1991. Don was a lifelong learner who valued education and continued to grow in his understanding of God's Word.

In 1993, Don and Jackie moved to Wichita, Kansas, where he pastored Evangel Presbyterian Church for 27 years. He retired from pastoral ministry in 2020.

Don had a deep love for Jesus, a passion for studying God's Word, and a heartfelt desire to preach the gospel and share the hope of the Savior with others. He genuinely cared for people. If someone was in need, Don was there. He encouraged, helped, prayed, and walked alongside people through the joys and difficulties of life. His ministry extended far beyond the pulpit; it was evident in the way he lived and loved others.

On February 14, 1962, Don married the love of his life, Jaclyn “Jackie” Edwards, in Oklahoma City. They shared 64 years of marriage and together raised four children: Robin, Cynthia, Timothy, and Daniel.

Don is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Jackie Edwards Rackley; their four children, Robin Hunt, Cyndee Lampe (John), Tim Rackley (Jenny), and Dan Rackley; ten grandchildren, Thomas Rackley (Abigail), Aaron Hunt (Abi), Paige Lampe Lindstrom (Ben), Taylor Rackley (Aye), Ellie Hunt, Kayla Lampe LeMay (Logan), Rebecca Rackley, James Rackley, Kate Rackley, and Ariah Lampe; and three great-grandchildren with one on the way.

One of Don’s greatest joys was spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He treasured every opportunity to be with them, and his love for his family will remain a lasting legacy through the generations.

Don is also lovingly remembered by his brothers and sisters: Tom Rackley (Virginia), Richard Rackley (Lynn), Harold Rackley (Darlene), Leroy Hamm (Mercedes), John Ferguson, Jim Ferguson (Midge), David Maddon (Mary), Betty Goss, Jean Rackley, and Kay Klimes. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Sharon Rackley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Al and Esther Rackley; son-in-law Stephen Hunt; brother Gerald Rackley; sisters-in-law Sherrie Ferguson, Gladys Rackley, and Samar Robertson; and brother-in-law Darrel Goss.

The family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone who cared for Don during his illness. A special thank-you to Lesli, Tricia, Chelsea, Dana, Pam, Jasmin, Misty, Heather, Anthony, Tami, Kendall, Sydney, Mariah, Amyiah, Angela, Mya, and many others. Your kindness, compassion, and dedication meant more than words can express. The family is deeply grateful for the love and care you showed Don.

While those who loved Don will deeply miss his presence, they can find comfort in knowing that he is now whole, free from the struggles of this life, and rejoicing in the presence of the Savior he loved and faithfully served. The hope he shared with others throughout his life is now the hope in which his family rests.

Don spent his life pointing people to Jesus. What a beautiful legacy to leave behind. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by his family, friends, and countless people whose lives were touched by his faithfulness and love.

A memorial has been established with:

McAdams Academy
903 S. Glenn Ave.
Wichita, KS 67213