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Jeffrey Ronald Rainey
Jeffrey Ronald RaineyPleasant SpartansJeffrey Ronald Rainey, 50, of Marion, was called home to Heaven on September 16, 2023, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born In Erie, Pa in 1973, Jeff and his family moved to Marion in 1980. Jeff attended Pleasant beginning in the second grade and graduated from Pleasant High School in 1991. He earned his bachelor’s degree and master’s in education from The Ohio State University. He then went on to pursue an additional masters in library science from Wright State University.

Jeff spent 25 years teaching, beginning at Tri-Rivers where he taught for 10 years and then at Pleasant, where he taught technology and oversaw the district libraries for 15 years. He was a beloved teacher and member of the staff, most famous for his “brain food” treats of Starbursts and Smarties that he gave to his students on test days.

At age six, Jeff was diagnosed with leukemia, but he never let it get him down or get in his way. He and his dad built and raced soap box derby cars together, and Jeff won two championships in Mansfield, Ohio, earning him the opportunity to race twice at The All-American Soap Box Derby, the most prestigious soap box derby race in the world held annually in Akron, Ohio.

After multiple relapses, a bone marrow transplant and another relapse, Jeff beat leukemia. In 2007, though, Jeff was diagnosed with a tumor in his stomach that was more than likely linked to long term effects from his leukemia treatments. Again, he never complained or let cancer define him.

Jeff married the love of his life, Jill (Leibold), on July 19, 2008, and they settled in Pleasant Township. When Jill became a teacher at North Union, that made Friday night football extra fun when their rival schools played each other. They are active members in Fulton Creek Friends Church, where Jill sings and Jeff played the drums.

A lifelong sailor, Jeff bought his first sailboat, a Catalina 27, after college and docked it at The Sandusky Yacht Club, sailing on Lake Erie. He later sold that boat, and he and Jill purchased another sailboat they keep at Alum Creek, where they have been active members in the Alum Creek Sailing Association for many years. They enjoyed taking people out on the boat and sharing their love of sailing with family and friends.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Jill, his mother, Janet Gabauer Rainey of Marion, sister Jill Rainey Walls (Ken) of Celina, Texas, nieces Abigail and Kenna, brother-in-law Steve Leibold (Debby), sisters-in-law Sandy (Paul) Cook, Carol (Keith) Sarbaugh, Joyce (Pat) Kibler, Judy (Kenton) Cunningham, and their families. Extended family includes aunts, uncle and cousins and many special friends and colleagues at Pleasant Local Schools. He is preceded in death by his father, Ron Rainey and both maternal and paternal grandparents. Jeff leaves a legacy of strength, courage, tenacity, positivity and faith. He loved teaching, and he loved his students, both past and present. And he loved being a Pleasant Spartan.

Calling hours will be Sunday, September 24, 2023 from 3 to 6 pm at Fulton Creek Friends Church, 10950 Fulton Creek Road, Richwood. Funeral services also will be held at the church on Monday, September 25 at 11:00 am officiated by Pastor Art Minnehan. Burial to follow at Marion Cemetery. The family is being assisted by Stofcheck-Ballinger Funeral Home, Richwood.

Memorial contributions may be made to Marion Community Foundation, 504 South State Street, Marion, Ohio 43302, for the purpose of establishing the Jeff Rainey Memorial Scholarship fund in memory of Jeffrey Rainey.

Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.stofcheck-ballinger.com



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Condolences       to

#1 from: Jenni Gardner
Marion
Sun, Sep 17, 2023 at 2:25 PM

I had the privilege of working with Jeff for many years. He was always eager to help in any way he could. His genuine friendliness was an encouragement to staff and students. I will always remember Jeff for his kindness, his positivity, and his love of pizza. My prayers are with Jeff’s family.



#2 from: Aubrey Conklin
 
Sun, Sep 17, 2023 at 2:33 PM

Mr. Rainey was one of the kindest teachers I ever had. When I had him for class, I was eager to go every day. He always had a smile on his face. Having conversations while helping him out in the library were some of my favorite high school memories. He will forever be missed. Praying for his family always.



#3 from: Kathy Younker
Dublin, Ohio
Sun, Sep 17, 2023 at 3:48 PM

Dearest Jill, and Family, Your beautifully written post, Jill, assures all that Jeff remains ever the shining beacon, and that he is now very much healed again.  Your words reflect your enduring faith, knowing that this time apart is only temporary.  Still, for you, and the many more who love him, I’m wishing you comfort, and peace as you endure this difficult time now. You are close to heart and in my prayers. God bless you and your family in every day, until you two are more definitely reunited again.



#4 from: Amy and Jeff Price
Marysville
Sun, Sep 17, 2023 at 4:07 PM

Jill, We are so sad to hear about Jeff’s passing. I know you will find comfort knowing that Jeff is in a better place. You were so blessed to have this time together and you will always have memories of the special times together. Our prayers are with you and we are thinking about you. Amy,Jeff, and Graham



#5 from: Rebecca George
Richwood
Sun, Sep 17, 2023 at 4:18 PM

My deepest sympathy to you, Jill, at the loss of your dear one.  Mrs. Rebecca George



#6 from: Pastor Pete & Pam Peters
Hampton, VA
Sun, Sep 17, 2023 at 6:19 PM

Our condolences to Jill and family. We met Jeff and Jill in 2011 when we came to pastor Fulton Creek Friends Church and became friends very quickly. We enjoyed time together on the sailboat, eating Mexican food at El Campesino, watching Buckeye games, going to Lake Erie and the Fulton Creek worship team. Jeff wanted to be our drummer and worked diligently to make that a reality. He possessed a powerful love of God and people, always having a positive attitude and encouraging word. Even when the cancer caused setbacks in his health he took it in stride and thanked the Lord for each day. It’s hard to believe he is gone from us and his memory will live on in our hearts. We look forward to seeing Jeff again in Heaven. Our prayers and love are with his family.



#7 from: Vickie and Ron Fantozzi
 
Sun, Sep 17, 2023 at 7:02 PM

This is so sad to hear.  What a loss for you, Jill, and his family and friends.  We only knew Jeff through the sailing club, but you could tell his passion for sailing and sharing that life.  There will only be fond memories of Jeff as he touched our lives.



#8 from: Rita Lou Rubeck Headington Parker
Richwood
Sun, Sep 17, 2023 at 7:06 PM

I am so very sorry for your loss.  Never forget all the good times spent together.  Treasure your many memories.



#9 from: Don & Darlene Krawczyk
Richwood
Sun, Sep 17, 2023 at 8:47 PM

Jan, Jill & the entire Leibold family . . . I am so shocked and so very saddened to read this.  Sending our condolences to you at this most difficult time.  Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.  Love, Darlene & Don Krawczyk



#10 from: Grace Cobb
 
Sun, Sep 17, 2023 at 9:11 PM

Pleasant was beyond lucky to have Mr. Rainey. He was always a light to those who stepped foot into his classroom. His kind heart and gentle spirit were an example of how anyone and everyone should be. Learning that he never lacked faith in the Lord explains his resilience and willingness to persevere through such challenging times, which is a huge inspiration. His strong faith brings me to 1 Timothy 6:12 “fight the good fight of the faith,” to which he absolutely did. My prayers go out to the family and friends of Mr. Rainey.



#11 from: Linda Seiter
Blanchard
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 6:33 AM

Jill, we are so sorry to learn of Jeff's death. We know you both love the Lord and that some day you will reunite in heaven. You have fond memories of your time together - think of those. You have our deepest sympathy and prayers. We love you.  Linda and Phill



#12 from: Andy Harper
Marion, OH
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 7:59 AM

I am so sorry for your loss.  Please know that you're in my thoughts and prayers and have my best wishes.



#13 from: MaryAnn Dickman
Delaware, Ohio
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 9:14 AM

Dear Jan,  please accept my prayers and condolences for your wonderful son. I know he was always such a joy to you. Some joy can come to you knowing what a fine man he was. Peace, MaryAnn



#14 from: The Popovich Family
Richwood
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 9:20 AM

Deepest sympathies for you and your family.



#15 from: John and Kay Coder
Marion,Ohio
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 9:37 AM

Our hearts goes out to the Rainey Family. What a strong person Jeffrey was and a inspiration to others. He will be missed by many. RipJeffrey.



#16 from: Stacy Brooks
Wilmington Ohio
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 9:46 AM

This sounds like a great man and Christian. Sending condolences to his family and friends.



#17 from: Joe Sloop
 
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 9:48 AM

Jill so sorry I no you guys enjoyed each other boating. . May god help you thru this time.



#18 from: Annette Nemeth-Sauselen
Marion, Ohio
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 10:58 AM

Dear Jan, Jill, Jill, and Family: I am heartbroken to hear about Jeff.  He was one of the kindest persons I have known.  We shared a lot of good memories and I am forever grateful to have been a part of his life, even for a short time.  Jan: your relationship was very special as mother and son, which is something I have always admired.  My thoughts, prayers, and love are with you all during this time and after.  He is with his Sedi now.  



#19 from: Gail DeGood-Guy
Richwood, Ohio
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 11:06 AM

To Jill's family and our classmate, Steve Leibold, please accept our deepest sympathies for your loss of Jeff.  May God watch over you all during this most difficult time.   On behalf of the NU Class of 1968, we send our condolences.  



#20 from: Brent & Kim Chapman
Richwood
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 1:08 PM

Jill - Our sympathies, prayers, and hugs to you. We know your faith in the Lord will carry and comfort you thru this journey. May all those wonderful memories of Jeff bring a smile to your heart thru the days to come.



#21 from: Ray & Arlene James
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 7:15 PM

Sympathy and prayers for strength and peace for all the family from friends in Christ.



#22 from: Mark & Candy Rinnert
Florida
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 9:44 PM

So sorry for your loss. We have good memories of Jeff. He was a  very caring person. Our prayers go out to his family.



#23 from: Judy  Nickel
Richwood, Ohio
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 9:57 PM

Dear Jill,  My love and sympathy go out to you at the loss of your beloved husband, friend and soul mate.  May God wrap His loving arms around you and give you comfort and peace.  God Bless!



#24 from: Bev Stives
Avon Lake
Mon, Sep 18, 2023 at 10:38 PM

Jan,  So sorry to hear of Jeff's passing.  Although I never met him, I could tell by your Facebook posts that he was a real fighter.  My grandson wants to be a teacher, I hope he is as successful as Jeff in making a difference in students lives. Love,  Your long ago neighbor Bev Stives



#25 from: Brian and Laurel Sparling
Marion
Tue, Sep 19, 2023 at 7:34 AM

Jeff was a great guy and a tremendous worker for Pleasant High School.  He ALWAYS did what was RIGHT and never complained.  I know Jeff is in a better place and is no longer in pain. Jill - We will continue to lift you up in prayer as you go forward in life.  Live to the fullest, that is what Jeff would want for you.



#26 from: Tenah McMahan
 
Tue, Sep 19, 2023 at 9:00 AM

Condolences 💐 to you and your family Jill.  



#27 from: Marty Harrison
Powell Ohio
Tue, Sep 19, 2023 at 10:45 AM

Dear Jill and family I am sorry. May Gods love and comfort be with you and your family. I am thinking of you and praying for peace ❤️



#28 from: Monica Decker
Marion, Ohio
Tue, Sep 19, 2023 at 12:29 PM

Mrs. Rainey, We want to let you know that we are thinking and praying for you. We wish your family the peace and healing you will need to heal. With love, Rachel, Benjamin, Monica and Bill Decker



#29 from: Pat Krebehenne
Richwood
Tue, Sep 19, 2023 at 1:34 PM

Love and prayers to the whole family. Cherish the memories. Sincerely Pat Krebehenne and family



#30 from: Cherie (Rinnert) Thompson
Lakeview Ohio
Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 12:37 PM

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Always remember the good memories.



#31 from: Loretta Griffiths
Marion
Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 10:00 PM

Jan and family, So sorry to hear this sad news.  Will keep you all in my prayers.  I'm out of town so won't be able to be with you.  Sending my deepest sympathies, Sue



#32 from: Kyle, Alicia, & Girls ( Strzelecki)
Marion, Ohio
Sat, Sep 23, 2023 at 5:15 AM

Jill & Family, We’ve been trying to find the words all week, and to be honest, it still doesn’t seem real. Jeff, or as Kyle lovingly called him, Jeffrey, was truly one of the best. You couldn’t find a more kind and gentler soul. Having been a Pleasant colleague for over fifteen years, Kyle developed such a loving bond with Jeff over the years; Jeff became his buddy. Someone that brought joy & hope, day in & day out. Never having to pack a lunch on Fridays, I knew Kyle & Jeff with the rest of the high school staff were planning a Payne’s pizza day; always instrumented by Jeff. Anytime I came onto campus to visit, Jeff always welcomed me with a smile. He truly embodied the heart & soul of Pleasant Local Schools. He loved what he did as a teacher; leaving his legacy for Spartans to cherish for generations to come. Kyle is going to miss his buddy, but I know he finds comfort that Jeff is no longer in pain. He has finished the race & won the good fight. Sending love & prayers to you, Jill. May you always remember how much he loved you & the strength that love gave him.



#33 from: Laurel LaFrance
Jacksonville, Florida
Sat, Sep 23, 2023 at 11:26 PM

I’m so sorry to hear of Jeff’s passing. He had such a beautiful soul, great sense of humor, and love for life and everyone around him. I find comfort knowing he is now free of pain and illness and will one day be reunited with his loved ones in heaven. I’m praying for your family in these most difficult days for comfort and peace beyond all understanding.



#34 from: Linda Redd
marion
Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 4:58 PM

To Jill and Rainey family. My heart is so saddened with the news of Jeffrey's passing. The Love you had for each other was so noticed. Please take care of yourself. Love you Aunt Linda



#35 from: Mary Lu Swartz
Richwood
Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 8:37 PM

Jill and Jeff's family:  As evidence of the Pleasant School video, Jeff positively touched and impacted many young lives in his journey thru life.  What a great legacy!  My sympathy to all as I know he will never be forgotten.




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