Wordell J. Rainey

Wordell J. Rainey passed away on March 7, 2025, in Washington, Utah, at the age of 96. Born on November 4, 1928, in Buhl, Idaho, Wordell lived a full and meaningful life marked by dedication to family, faith, and service.

After graduating from high school, Wordell joined the U.S. Marine Corps. However, as the Korean War was winding down, new recruits were mustered out soon after enlistment. Undeterred in his desire to serve, he joined the Idaho National Guard shortly thereafter and rose to the rank of captain. His military training took him to Fort Knox, Kentucky, and Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

Wordell's professional life was one of hard work and adaptability. For about 20 years, he balanced two demanding roles-working as a chauffeur in Sun Valley, Idaho while also maintaining a career as a farmer. Eventually, he moved to Hailey, Idaho, where he transitioned into a career with Farm Bureau Insurance as an agent. From there, he entered the real estate industry and ultimately retired as a broker.

Faith played an important role in Wordell's life. Though baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the age of eight, his family did not actively attend church during his youth. It wasn't until he and Donna-Rose were married and had two young daughters that they decided to become more involved in their faith. Together with Donna-Rose, Wordell studied with missionaries and became deeply committed to his church. Over the years, he served in numerous capacities-including as a stake missionary; branch president in Sun Valley; bishop in Hailey; a member of the Blaine Stake Presidency; temple worker; and later alongside Donna-Rose as full-time missionaries in both the Florida Fort Lauderdale Mission and the Illinois Nauvoo Mission. His leadership and service left a lasting impact on many who knew him.

Beyond his professional and religious commitments, Wordell found joy in farming-a passion that stayed with him throughout his life. He also loved camping and vacationing with family, golfing, and simply spending time with loved ones. He and Donna-Rose traveled extensively to visit children and grandchildren across the United States and beyond-including trips to Korea, Hawaii, and New Zealand.

After retiring from real estate, Wordell and Donna-Rose left Hailey for warmer climates in St. George/Washington, Utah. At the age of 72, Wordell built their dream home on a volcanic bluff overlooking the Virgin River-a place they cherished together until Donna-Rose's passing in 2021. Wordell remained there until his own passing four years later.

He is survived by his children, Viki Rainey (John) Aaron; Linda Rainey (Blaine) Hyde; Steven Rainey (Young Ju); Kathy Rainey (Chris) Gibson; and Rosemary Rainey, as well as two sisters, Sharon Montgomery Purdy and Nola Montgomery Taylor.

Wordell's legacy is one of devotion-to family, faith, hard work, and service. His memory will be treasured by those who knew him.