James Danny Rainey

"Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4: 4-7 James Danny Rainey, 77, of Meridian, Mississippi, died peacefully in his home surrounded by his children on Friday, February 16, 2024, after a brief battle with cancer. James, or J.D. as many called him, was born in Meridian, MS, on July 1, 1946, to James Henry "Odell" and Lessie Roberts Rainey. After graduating from Meridian High School in 1964, he attended Meridian Community College and worked several jobs before enlisting in the Mississippi Air National Guard and going on to make a career of 35 years of service - retiring as Chief Master Sergeant of the 186th Air Refueling Wing. After his retirement from the military, he decided to continue his public service by campaigning and being elected to the office of Lauderdale County Tax Assessor in 2011. Serving as Tax Assessor was one of the greatest joys of his life and after three unopposed elections, he was currently in his fourth term of service. He was passionate about serving the people of Lauderdale County and built a loyal office team that he ensured held that same passion for service. In 1967, he married his first love, Grace Minor Rainey, and they enjoyed 27 years of marriage before he lost her to cancer. They were blessed with three children and he was a devoted husband and father. The pride he held for his family was so great and always showed through his love for storytelling. He was a member of Hebron Baptist Church where he served as Deacon on multiple occasions throughout his life. James is survived by his wife, Karen; his children, Jeff Rainey (Ashley) of Meridian, MS, Lara Rainey Simpkins (Fred) of Dallas, TX, and Gina Rainey LoBue (Jarid) of Plaquemine, LA; stepsons, Scott Bond and Donald Bond; his grandchildren, Katelyn Rainey, Jeffery (J.R.) Rainey, Jr., Christian Simpkins, Emma Kate Simpkins, Sarah Grace LoBue, Isabella LoBue, Lydia Bond and Zach Bond (Brittany); numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. The family would like to thank his doctors at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL, as well as Dr. Jennifer Eubanks and Dr. Thomas Plavac, for their extraordinary knowledge and care. Also a special thank you to Harper's Hospice, Kyle, Nurse Chasity, Ms. Mary, Ms. Theresa and Bruce for their amazing care and comfort. Celebration of life services will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at Robert Barham Family Funeral Home in Meridian, MS. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m; Funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. with burial following at Hebron Baptist Church Cemetery. Donations on his behalf may be made to Hebron Baptist Church Cemetery Fund in care of Dr. Richard Wallace at 4795 Vimville Causeyville Road, Meridian, MS 39301. Online condolences may be expressed at robertbarhamffh.com. Robert Barham Family Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements.