Rev. Sory Gaines

Rev. Sory L. Gaines’ earthly journey began on Friday, September 29, 1939, in Montgomery County, Tennessee, the son of the late Robert Wesley Gaines and Mable Pettus Gaines. Also preceded in death by his daughter, Nora Merriweather; son, Dannie Ramey; siblings: Ella Woodson, Flossie Demonbruen, Willie Lee Gaines, Walter Gaines and JW Gaines. 

 He accepted Christ as his personal Lord and Savior at an early age and baptized at Nevels Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. He became a licensed ordained minister under the pastorship of Rev. Joe Babb. 

 Sory received his education in the Montgomery County School System and attended Pisgah School. He enjoyed employment with the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System as a custodian and retired on October 28, 2005, after many years of dedicated service.

 In 1976, Rev. Sory united in holy matrimony with Rev. Laura Ramey and the Lord blessed this union with a blended family of 10 children. Together they later founded “The Lighthouse Church of the Living God” in 2006 where they served as pastor and co-pastor for numerous years. After uniting with Cabin Row Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor James Trotter, Rev. Gaines served as an associate minister. He preached his last sermon titled “You Reap What You Sow” on Sunday, November 10, 2024.

 He loved gospel quartets, videos and singings. When visiting his home, you actually “went to church” as he shared these videos and music with you. He had a quiet nature, but was jovial in spirit. He would laugh and leap for joy when he heard the Word, a spirit-filled song or prayer.

 Rev. Sory loved spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed landscaping his home, detailing his cars, listening to gospel music, reading and studying the Bible. All who knew and loved him will sorely miss his presence and smiling face.

 On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, Rev. Gaines’ journey ended peacefully as he entered into the Master’s joy.

 He leaves precious memories to be cherished and shared by his wife of 48 years, Laura Ramey Gaines; daughters: Lisa Gaines, Patricia Ussery and Ashley Gaines, all of Clarksville, TN; sons: Michael Randall, Macon, GA, Anthony Gaines, Charles (Margie) Gaines, Robert Gaines, all of Clarksville, TN and Evan Gaines, Nashville, TN; 15 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.