Obituary published on Legacy.com by St. John's Family Funeral Home & Crematory on May 8, 2024.
John F. Rainier, 94, of
St. Augustine, Florida, passed away on May 3, 2024, at the Bailey Family Center for Caring, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 14, 1930, in
Florence, New Jersey, and his life journey was filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion.
After dedicating many years of service to the New Jersey Department of Transportation, John retired and embarked on a new chapter of his life in Florida in 1994. It was there that he found solace in the warm embrace of the Sunshine State and continued to spread joy wherever he went.
John's passion for horses was a defining aspect of his life. He poured his heart and soul into caring for these majestic animals, finding peace and fulfillment in their presence.
A man with a heart as sweet as the candy he adored, John was known for his insatiable sweet tooth. His home was always stocked with treats, and he took great delight in sharing them with friends, family, and visitors.
John also had a deep love for the Christmas season and he loved to decorate his home. His house became a beacon of holiday cheer, renowned throughout the community for its dazzling decorations and festive spirit.
A pillar of faith, John was a longtime member of Turning Point at Calvary, where he actively participated in the senior adults group and supported various ministries within the church. His unwavering commitment to his faith and his willingness to lend a helping hand endeared him to all who worshipped alongside him.
Funeral services to celebrate John's life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, May 10, 2024, at Turning Point at Calvary, located at 3500 SR 16,
St. Augustine, FL 32092. Entombment will follow in the Turning Point at Calvary Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in John's memory may be made to Community Hospice of Northeast Florida.
John is survived by his children: John F. Rainier Jr. (Patricia) of New Jersey, Rachelle Brown (Russell) of St. Augustine, and Roxanne Sobolewski (Kenneth) of
Lady Lake, Florida; his brother, Nelson Rainier, of New Jersey; grandchildren Christine, Johnette, Breann, Cynthia, Karen, Maurice Jr., Kurt, Kyleigh, and K.J.; nine great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; close family friend Robert Marlin; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rachael and Raymond King; his beloved wife of 64 years, Louise Alice Rainier; his son, Maurice Rainier; and his granddaughter, Jenna Sobolewski.
John will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, generosity, and faith will continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.
St. Johns Family Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.