Lee Rainwater

I took sociology courses from Lee Rainwater when I was an undergraduate student at Harvard decades ago. He kindly wrote me a letter of recommendation that helped me to obtain a full scholarship to a top graduate program in sociology. Now I am a professional sociologist in part due to his inspiration and training. Rainwater's Behind Ghetto Walls and What Money Buys are classics that are still models for insightful sociological research.

Dear Carol,

I just today learned that Lee had died in July. I am so sad. I remember the day he was my best man when Bobette and I married. I remember vividly the day she introduced you and Lee. Although we went our separate ways in life, I cherish our memories, my work with Lee, the times together with Bunny and Lee. I'm sitting here weeping, a sad, self-pitying old man of 94, but cheered by all the good things we had in life. Love, dear Carol, from an old friend, Sidney.

I am sorry for your loss. May prayer comfort you.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Pray constantly."

Lee was probably the kindest person I knew. But what I admired so much was his brilliant mind that could see so clearly through an idea and end up with a clearer and better idea. His book "Behind Ghetto Walls" was without doubt a classic and inspired a host of studies on the subject and will remain a model for all such studies well into the future.

Mildred Rein

Lee was a scholar and a gentleman. With his vision for what sociologist might contribute, he could also see the ways emerging technologies could support and enhance the work. I'll miss his gentle humor, kindness and wonderful mind.