Lillian Rainey

In Loving Memory of Lillian Rainey
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Oct. 31, 1937–Dec. 14, 2025
Lillian Rainey, 88, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025, at UPMC Passavant–McCandless.
A lifelong Pittsburgher, Lillian carried with her a quiet strength that shaped every community she touched. She was known for her sharp wit and the way she made people feel seen-whether through a warm greeting, a thoughtful gesture, or the simple gift of listening.
For decades, Lillian worked in the Foster Grandparent Program of Southwestern Pennsylvania, providing tender, loving, one on one support and companionship to children with special needs. Her patience, warmth, and steady presence made a profound difference in the lives of countless young people and their families.
Lillian was a gentle, steady presence whose kindness touched everyone around her. She carried herself with warmth, resilience, and a deep devotion to the people she loved. She was also known for the joys she brought into everyday life. An expert at playing spades and making deviled eggs, she infused gatherings with laughter, friendly competition, and the comfort of her signature dish.
Her generosity, grace, and unwavering care will be remembered always.
Lillian was preceded in death by her parents, William and Odessa (Lowe) Rainey; and siblings Dorothy Robinson, Shirley (Rainey) Kyser, Helen Rainey, Mildred Rainey, Bernice Rainey, Janet Rainey, Kenneth Rainey, William Rainey, and Walter Rainey;
She leaves behind one son and daughter-in-law, James Sr. and Annamaria Rainey; grandchildren Crystal (Rainey) Turner and husband Gregory, and James Rainey Jr.; great grandchildren Amira Turner and Ahasai Woodman; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and other loved ones. Her legacy lives on in each of them.
Visitation is planned for Monday, Jan. 5, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Jones Funeral Home, 2644 Wylie Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15219. A memorial service will follow; interment will be private.