JAMES KENNETH RAINEY

James Kenneth Rainey, 82, of Calera, Alabama, made his entrance to his Heavenly home on May 19, 2026. Kenneth was born in Jefferson County, Alabama, where he and his wife of over 50 years, Judy raised their children. They later moved to Shelby County after his parents relocated to “Moo Too”, a family home place, where he spent the remaining years of his life. Kenneth was a machinist by trade, retiring from US Steel after moving to Shelby County. Kenneth had a gift to master any task before him. He understood carpentry, mechanics, and was proficient in reloading ammunition and repairing gun, but could figure out anything. He loved farming, and throughout his life provided meat and vegetables for his family and extended family. He was an experienced hunter, and loved sharing that experience and his bounty with his family and friends! Kenneth’s passion was music! He had a gift. From young adulthood, he learned to play the guitar and later other instruments. His social life was based around music. He and Judy spent many nights with friends and family playing and singing country, gospel, bluegrass, and mixed genres. The kids joined in especially when they played “Puff the Magic Dragon” and other favorites. God blessed him with a second wife of almost seven years, Edna. They shared a loving partnership, and she took great care of him throughout his battle with cancer. They also shared a love of music, and she fit right in with the family. The family is especially grateful to Frankie Rainey for being there for his father and helping Edna with the care and concern of a loving son. He was preceded in death by his wife Judith B Rainey; grandchild Michael Christian Rainey; parents Jesse James and Lola Mae Rainey; and his brothers Larry Rainey and Johnny Rainey. He is survived by his wife, Edna H Rainey; children Karen Avery (Buster), Frankie Rainey (Tina), Nina Kline (Lance), Teresa Avery, Melissa Shyeanne Meacham, and Brian Harper; his siblings Amy Pennington (Mike) and Jesse Rainey (Donna). He was blessed with numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, great great nieces and a few great great greats. The visitation will be from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM, Friday, May 22, 2026, at Peoples Chapel Funeral Home. The funeral service will be at 2:00 PM at the Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Valley Creek Cemetery.