Mr. Curtis Raines, Sr.

Mr. Curtis Raines, Sr. transitioned from labor to reward on Friday, November 5, 2010. His faith was unwavering as he ascended into the arms of God. He was born February 1, 1943 in Thomaston, Georgia to the union of the late Wilson and Susie Mae (McCants) Raines. Deacon Raines accepted the Lord at an early age. He attended public school in Georgia, continuing his education and graduating in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Curtis met the love of his life, Ruth Hudson Raines, and married in 1973. They were married for 37 years. To this union there are four daughters, three sons and one goddaughter. Curtis also has one daughter and three sons from a previous marriage. Curtis united with House of Peace Church of God in Christ serving faithfully under the leadership of Pastor Elder Leonzo Hudson, Sr. as a dutiful Deacon. Deacon Raines was saved and filled with the Holy Spirit as a young adult. In 1986 under the leading of the Holy Spirit and blessings of Pastor Hudson, Deacon Curtis and family united under the leadership of Supt. Pastor C.G. Charles, Tabernacle Church of God in Christ, Kalamazoo, MI. There he served the Lord in many roles; Trustee, Deacon, Men's Fellowship Committee, and the Male Chorus. He was an epitome of dedication to God's church and servant of the Lord. Deacon Raines often exclaimed, during or after a fervent testimony, "Someone just ought to say thank you Lord, right about now". This was a joy to see and hear him praise the Lord. He was a Godly man who encouraged others to believe in the Word of God. Curtis loved to sing God's praises and was affectionately called, "the singing, preaching Deacon." Curtis retired in 2005 from Kalamazoo City Public Works. He was also co-owner of PRE Properties Inc., a housing management company. He found joy in building and restoring homes and providing quality and affordable homes for families. Curtis loved and cherished Ruth. The mention of her name brought a warm smile to his face. They were best friends. Next to God, family and travel were their passions. Curtis was preceded in death by four brothers, Moses Raines, Rufus Raines, L.C. Raines and one sister Lillie Raines. He leaves behind to cherish his memory 10 children: Luenette Gainer, Curtis Raines Jr., Willard Raines, Carl Raines all of Florida; Stephanie Randle, Tiffany Randle, Freda Buchanan, Jason (Noreen) Raines, Jaron Raines, Darnell Cargile, Sheia Raines and Arhea Norton all of Kalamazoo; Five grandchildren: Wiltisha, Wilneka, Kasha, Eris, and Rylan; two brothers: George and (Linda) Raines of Kalamazoo and Wilson (Mildred) Raines of Georgia; five sisters: Mattie C Howell, Fannie Mae (Horace) Raines, Hattie Lee (Alton) Dawson, Ellena (Murthie) Daniely, Catherine (William) Ivey, all of Georgia; Aunts: Mamie Carter, Mary Colbert, and Mary McCants; Goddaughter Alisa Spencer; Special friends: Jacqueline Woodard, Larry Edmonds, Jerome Holloway, and Dwayne Powell and a host of family and friends.

Mr. Curtis Raines, Sr.

February 1, 1943 - November 5, 2010