Willard Richard Rakes

1925 - 2019

Willard Richard Rakes obituary, 1925-2019, San Antonio, TX

Willard Richard Rakes

1925 - 2019

BORN

1925

DIED

2019

Willard Rakes Obituary

Published by Porter Loring Mortuary North on Sep. 3, 2019.
Willard Richard Rakes, age 94, passed away on Tuesday, September 3, 2019 in San Antonio, Texas. He was born in Bella Vista, Arkansas on August 29, 1925 to James and Safronia (Braithwaite) Rakes. Richard served his country during World War 2 as a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Army Air Corp, flying on B-17 missions from bases in Italy. After training at Spartan School of Aeronautics in Tulsa, OK, he became a flight engineer with American Airlines, flying domestically and internationally for 36 years on DC-6, DC-7, Boeing 707, Boeing 747 and DC-10 aircraft. Richard was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Mary Lou Rakes, and his brothers, Clarence Rakes of Dumas, Texas and Charles Rakes of Bentonville, Arkansas. He is survived by his son, James M. Rakes and wife Glenda; daughter, Andrea Broker and husband, Mike; and grandchildren, Alyssa Willis and husband Steven, Daniel Rakes, David Rakes, Michael Broker II and wife Mandy, and Jonathan Broker. Richard is survived also by his sister, Betty O'Grady, of Trinidad, Colorado. The family will receive friends from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 10, 2019 at Porter Loring North. MEMORIAL SERVICE WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2019 1:00 P.M. UNIVERSITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 5804 DE ZAVALA ROAD In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to University United Methodist Church.

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August 28, 2023

Christopher Nelson posted to the memorial.

September 24, 2021

Christopher Nelson posted to the memorial.

September 10, 2019

Randy and Lynn Brown posted to the memorial.

6 Entries

Christopher Nelson

August 28, 2023

I just wanted to say I was thinking about you.

Christopher Nelson

September 24, 2021

My mother grew up next door to Richard back in the late 50's. When I was 7 we moved back in to the family house where I then had the pleasure of meeting Mr. and Mrs. Rakes. I eventually made friends with them and any time Richard was doing yard work or running his model planes I would go and watch. My love for plants and flowers and all things like began with his help and willingness to teach a bothersome little neighbor kid. He was there when both my grandparents passed away as well as when all three of my children were born. I will never forget his passion for gardening and I will also never forget how awesome his grass was in his yard. He probably never knew it but he inspired me later in my life and I will never forget it. My deepest condolences go out to his remaining family, he was a good man, husband, father and friend as well as neighbor and he will be greatly missed. Richard, I hope to see you one day when it's my time to go home. God bless.

Randy and Lynn Brown

September 10, 2019

Foz was one of the most outgoing, warm and caring persons we have ever known. He always had a smile on his face and a friendly greeting whenever we saw him at Andrea and Mike's house or just out and about in our neighborhood. A loving husband, father, grandfather who will be very missed! Mike, Andrea, and family, we are so sorry for your loss and we wish you peace in your hearts. He is with his lovely wife and our Lord!

Arlene Ritchey

September 10, 2019

Sweet Uncle. He was always so loving to me and my family. Gave the biggest hugs and his smiles went straight to the heart! One of the most sincere and caring men I've ever known. I know my Dad and him are exchanging stories and laughing in their heavenly homes. Not goodbye, but see you later!

Jan & Tom Patterson

September 8, 2019

I am sorry for your earthly loss. What a wonderful life and legacy. Prayers for your family.

Darrell Totten Friend

September 8, 2019

We were sorry to learn of the passing of Mr. Rakes, the Rakes were long-time neighbors on Caduceus in Hurst, lovely couple, always kind and helpful, especially Richard if you happened to get out a chain saw he was right there immediately to help. Great couple, a pleasure to live across the street from them.

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Porter Loring Mortuary North

2102 N. Loop 1604 E., San Antonio, TX 78232

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Sign Willard Rakes's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

August 28, 2023

Christopher Nelson posted to the memorial.

September 24, 2021

Christopher Nelson posted to the memorial.

September 10, 2019

Randy and Lynn Brown posted to the memorial.