Leon Davis Raines

01/15/1951 - 08/17/2025

Leon Davis Raines, affectionately known as "PEANUT", was born on January 15, 1951, in Barton, Florida, to the late Willie B. Raines and Clydie Bell Crayton. His life was a testament to the power of love and resilience, and he departed this world peacefully, surrounded by his loving family and wife, on August 17, 2025.
Leon's life journey was marked by his determination to serve others, as evident in his attendance at Benton Harbor High School, his proud service in the U.S. Military Army, and his dedicated work at the Benton Harbor Public Library and Superior Steel.
Later in life, Leon found his soulmate, and their union was blessed with 4 beautiful children. After years of courtship, Leon married his beloved wife, Dianna Raines, "A force to be reckoned with". They were the couple that kept the family entertained with pure giggles! Their bond was strengthened over 5l extraordinary years!
Leon was not only an extraordinary husband and father. He was such a phenomenal grandfather who spent countless days and hours with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who profoundly touched and warmed his heart.
Leon had multiple hobbies, including fishing, listening to music, and traveling around the world with his lovely wife and beautiful children. He also often enjoyed concerts and had a true love for sports.
Leon (Peanut) was a shining example of the transformative power of human connection, blessed with the extraordinary ability to form instant bonds with others. His warm and welcoming smile was a hallmark of his presence. With a heart full of joy, he would often entertain those around him with jokes, singing, dancing, and spreading happiness wherever he went. Countless lives were enriched by his company.
Leon's (Peanut's) remarkable legacy continues to inspire others with his contagious smile, laughter, and generous spirit, a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on the world. His gift for filling any room with joy, laughter, and love will forever be a source of inspiration and upliftment to all who were fortunate enough to know him.
In 1998, Leon joined Madison Square Church, of Grand Rapids where he made the transformative decision to dedicate his life to the LORD.
He leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished by his devoted wife, Dianna Raines; three daughters, Dequella (Willie) of Grand Rapids, MI, Crystal Anderson (Abby) of Kalamazoo, MI, Parris Jamison (Darrell); one son, Leon Williams, both of Grand Rapids, MI; two sisters, Lauralean Raines of Flint, MI, and Deloris Raines of Bartow, Florida; and an abundance of, In-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who have been inspired by his life.
Leon was preceded in death by his grandparents; his father, Willie B. Raines; his mother, Clydie Bell Crayton; three brothers, Lonnie Caldwell, Willie B. Raines Jr., Clarence Raines; two sisters, Linda Raines, Janie Bell; and his niece, Chonda Lynn Raines.
Leon (Peanut) will be truly missed by his family and close friends. His memory will continue to inspire and uplift his loved ones, serving as a lasting testament to his enduring legacy. (PeaKNUCKLE).
Family hour, 12-1pm, on Friday August 22, 2025. Funeral Services starting at 1pm on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Madison Square church, 1441 Madison Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49507. Interment Fost Custer National Cemetery.