Gwyn Anthony Raker

Gwyn Anthony Raker of Roswell, Georgia passed away in the peaceful comfort of his home surrounded by his family on August 5, 2025. He was born July 19, 1949 in Winston-Salem, North Carolina to the late Iris and Horace Raker. Gwyn graduated from Reynolds High School in Winston-Salem where he was honored with the Wittiest Superlative his senior year, and made numerous lifetime friendships. He enjoyed attending Reynolds reunions for many years. He continued his studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He loved his years at UNC, where he drew cartoons for the Daily Tar Heel and never missed a home basketball game. Gwyn was a die-hard Carolina basketball fan and remembered any stat, any player and any game going all the way back to the 60’s. He passed his love for the Tar Heels on to his children. He married his beloved, Marianne Nifong, after graduation in 1972. They began their life together in Winston-Salem, but soon moved to the metro Atlanta area where they built a beautiful and full life. They would have celebrated their 53rd anniversary on August 13th. In addition to being a devoted husband he was a very proud Dad to his children Caroline and Bryan. He cherished his close relationship with them long after they left his home. He took on his favorite role to date – Gwyndaddy! – when his precious granddaughter Edie Grace Raker was born in August 2024. He always believed in preparing for career moves and seizing opportunities. In 1981 he was convinced by Bernie Marcus and Arthur Blank to take a chance with The Home Depot and that it would change his life. This was true and then some. He spent nearly 19 years at HD and created the loveable mascot, Homer D. Poe, along with the font for the pricing and signage still seen in the stores today. He left a lasting legacy at the company that won’t soon be forgotten. Gwyn enjoyed a long retirement filled with world travel, golf, sports cars and live music. Over the years, he was commissioned to create countless original pieces of art including pets, architectural drawings and landscapes. He spent as much time as he could at his mountain home outside of Boone, North Carolina. He loved driving his 1997 Jeep Wrangler around the High Country enjoying all the area had to offer. More than anything he cherished his time with his family and friends that he considered family. Everyone loved Gwyn. Gwyn will be sorely missed by all who were lucky enough to know him. He will be remembered for his quick wit, his kind heart and his incredible artistic talent. He was known for his storytelling and impressive memory. Gwyn was a wonderful listener who gave great advice. People were drawn to his magnetic spirit his entire life. Above all, his legacy will be his sweet love and devotion to his people. His life was wonderful because he was wonderful. His life was full of love because he was full of love. Gwyn is survived by his wife Marianne, his children Caroline Caravella (Jason) of Roswell, GA and Bryan (Leeanne), his granddaughter Edie Raker of Marietta, GA, his brother, Don Raker (Ann), his sister-in-law Susan Williamson (Rick), along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and three grand-dogs who adored him. A visitation will be held at Northside Chapel on Friday August 15th from 5:00-8:00 p.m. His “Celebration of a Life Well Lived” will be at Northbrook United Methodist Church on Saturday August 16th at 2:00 p.m. A reception will follow the service in the Simmons Fellowship Hall. In Gwyn’s memory we encourage wearing the color blue or whatever makes you happy. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the compassionate caregivers who provided comfort and support in his final days. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Northbrook United Methodist Church (https://www.northbrookumc.com/), Roswell, Georgia. He was a faithful member serving many roles for over 42 years.

Gwyn Anthony Raker

July 19, 1949 - August 5, 2025