Herbert E. Rainey Sr. died of natural causes on Sunday, March 6, 2016, at Spring Harbor of Williamsburg.
He was born on September 19, 1926, in Newport News, the son of the late Orelia J. and Herbert Eugene Rainey.
Mr. Rainey was a lifelong resident of Williamsburg. He must have been an adorable child, as his stepfather, the Rev. Junius H. Moody, always said he, “fell in love with two-year-old Herbert first, then his widowed mother.”
Herbert was educated in the Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools and attended Virginia State University. He was a lifetime member of the YJCW–NAACP, the Old Capital Lodge No. 629 and the Williamsburg Men’s Club.
Mr. Rainey was also preceded in death by his son, Herbert E. Rainey Jr.; and sister, Jennie Viola Jones. He leaves to cherish his precious memories his loving wife, Doris Rainey; daughters, Deirdre Accornero (Franco) and Orelia Dunnigan (Douglas); three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and a host of other loving relatives and many caring friends.
Mr. Rainey may be viewed from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, March 10, at Whiting’s Funeral Home. A celebration of his life will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 11, at New Zion Baptist Church, 3991 Longhill Road, Williamsburg, with the Rev. Robert A. Whitehead officiating. Interment with military honors and Elks rites will follow in Williamsburg Memorial Park. Family and friends will assemble at 935 Capitol Landing Road by noon Friday, March 11.
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