James K. Rakestraw

James K. Rakestraw passed away, Sunday, August 5, 2012 at the age of 78; born February 2, 1934 in Chicago, IL. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Phyllis Kay (McFarren) and his 3 children Jill (Marc) Emery, Jeff (Lori) Rakestraw and Todd (Tami) Rakestraw, his 11 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren and one on the way.

 Jim loved the Lord, his Savior Jesus Christ and is now whole in body and free from pain, in the presence of God. He was a long time member of South Church; serving as Usher, Deacon, Sunday School teacher and on the Mission board. Jim loved baseball, family, friends, music, and good food. He loved playing card games and chess with whoever wanted to play. He was a Cubs fan growing up and became a Tigers fan too. Jim started Rakestraw Carpet and Furniture Cleaners in 1961 and it is still a family owned and operated business today. We are all missing him greatly.

 The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 10, 2012, at South Church, 5250 Cornerstone Dr., Lansing, MI. Interment will follow in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Visitations are Thursday, August 9 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel and one hour prior to the service time on Friday at the church. Contributions can be made to South Church for their Missions outreach.