Janeice Russell Rainer Ragland

With profound sadness and hearts full of love, we share the passing of our cherished matriarch, Janeice Russell Rainer Ragland, who left this world peacefully on April 20, 2025, at the age of 75. Though her physical presence has departed, the warmth of her love and the strength of her spirit will forever echo into the lives of all who knew her. Janeice was born on February 7, 1950, to Fred Nathaniel Russell and Mary Alice Coleman Russell in the United States. Her parents imparted values of hard work, compassion, and devotion to family, which shaped the remarkable woman she became. From her earliest years, Janeice carried a quiet resilience and a giving heart, always putting others before herself and finding joy in even the simplest of life’s moments. To those who knew her, Janeice was far more than a mother, grandmother, sister, or friend—she was a source of comfort, a keeper of family traditions, and the heart of every gathering. She had a gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved. Whether through a warm meal, a gentle word, or a shared laugh, she made every soul feel at home. Janeice was a devoted and loving mother to her three children: Todd Rainer, Tracey Peters (Rainer), and Kenneth Rainer, each of whom she raised with unshakable love and guidance. Her influence as a mother was profound, and the values she instilled continue to shine through them. Janeice shared a close, lifelong bond with her siblings, Brenda Harvey and Thomas Russell, and her late sister Lenora June Russell Smith, who passed on August 30, 2013—relationships marked by unconditional support, shared memories, and enduring love. She also held a special place in her heart for her beloved in-laws and extended family. She was the proud and joyful grandmother of twelve grandchildren: John Rainer, Kelsey Rainer, Talitha & Jeremy Hooks, Mari & Brad Lewandowski, Matthew Peters, Patricia Peters, Catherine Peters & Nick Vee, Ashley Tawater, Brandon Rainer, Steven Rainer, Samantha Rainer, and Katie Rainer. Each grandchild brought her pride, laughter, and a reason to keep her cookie jar full and her arms open. Her heart expanded even further with the arrival of her fifteen great-grandchildren: Jason, Dylan, Jerren, Kattaleiya, Guinevere, William, Dakoda, Kennedy, Braylee, Eleana, Parker, Karson, Devina, Austin, and Henrik—each a precious light in her life. They were her greatest joys, and she took deep pride in watching their little personalities blossom. Janeice’s love extended to her children-in-law, who she welcomed as her own: Melvin Peters, Sally Allen, and Lisa Combest. She loved them deeply and appreciated the happiness they brought into her family. She was preceded in death by those she loved and missed dearly—her parents, Fred and Mary Russell; her beloved husband, Glen Ragland; her sister, June Smith; and dear family members Angie Harvey and Bo Harvey. Though gone from this world, they remain together now in peace and reunion. Janeice’s life was a tapestry of grace, kindness, humor, and love. A steady presence and nurturing soul, she was a storyteller, a listener, and a comfort to all. She’ll be remembered for her joyful holiday gatherings, wise advice, and the way she made everyone feel at home. Her legacy lives on in the stories, traditions, and kindness she inspired. She leaves behind a large and loving family that includes many cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends, each blessed by her generosity of spirit and endless capacity to love. A celebration of Janeice’s life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, June 13, 2025, at Deer Park Funeral Directors, in remembrance and gratitude for the extraordinary life she lived. Though she is no longer with us in body, Janeice’s love will continue to guide us. Her memory is etched into the fabric of our lives, her voice forever part of our family’s story. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice in her memory. Rest gently, dear Janeice. You were deeply loved, and you will be missed beyond words.