Richard Russell Raines, Jr.

Richard "Rusty/Russ" Russell Raines, Jr., 78, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2024, at his home in Lampasas, TX, surrounded by his loving family.  He was born on January 9, 1946, in Tifton, GA, to Richard Russell Raines, Sr. and Lanelle Angeline (Jordan, Miller) Raines.

Funeral services will be held at Rainey Family Funeral Services, 1415 E. 24th Ave., Cordele, GA, 31015, on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 2:00 pm.  Visitation will also be held at the funeral home on Friday at 1:00 pm prior to the service with family and friends gathering to share memories and celebrate his legacy.  Interment will follow at Sunnyside Cemetery in Cordele, GA.

Rusty grew up in Cordele, GA where he graduated from Crisp County High School in 1965.  He went on to earn a Bachelor of Business Administration from Valdosta State University.  After completing his education, he began a distinguished career, in initially in the private sector, before joining the federal government as a Logistics Supervisor in the P-3 program with Naval Air Systems Command.  His work exemplified dedication and excellence, and he retired in 2008 after 30 years of service.

Throughout his life, Rusty was actively engaged in his community, serving in various civic activities and earning a 16-year service pin for his work with the Methodist church.  He was a man of deep faith, integrity, and kindness.

Russ married Catherine in 1980 in Jacksonville, FL, and together they built a beautiful life over 44 years of marriage.  He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a playful and cherished "Granddad" to his grandchildren.  His love of photography captured countless family memories, and he took immense joy in spending time with his family, especially during holidays and the grandchildren's activities.  His humor and lighthearted antics, including his tradition of "stealing" candy from his grandchildren, brought endless laughter to those around him.

Russ is preceded in death by his father, Richard Russell Raines, Sr., and his mother, Lanelle Angeline Miller.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Catherine of Lampasas, TX; his children, Catherine (Scott) Knussmann of Georgetown, TX, and Richard Russell "Trey" Raines III (Stephanie) of Bushwood, MD; his stepfather, James Miller, of Waycross, GA; his sister, Tamza Brumley of Duluth, GA; his cherished grandchildren, Jake, Dylan, Payton, Emily, Kamryn, Reagan, and Riley and his nephew, David Brumley.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Mary "Poppins" Manwell, whose unwavering care and compassion made her an integral part of our family during Russ' final weeks.  They also wish to thank the dedicated team at New Century Hospice in Lampasas, TX, for their kindness and support, as well as , Sneed-Carnley Funeral Chapel for caring for Dad after his passing.

Russ Raines will be remembered for his humor, generosity, and the legacy of love he leaves behind.  He touched the lives of all who knew him and will be deeply missed.