James Edward "Ed" Rainer

James Edward “Ed” Rainer, 77, passed away on May 17, 2025, at his home in Brandon, MS. Visitation will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025, from 10:30am-1:00pm at Ott & Lee Funeral Home in Brandon, MS located at 1360 West Government St. Brandon, MS 39042. Graveside Service will begin at 3:00pm on Monday, May 19, 2025, at Newton County Memorial Gardens in Newton, MS.

Ed was born on August 17, 1947, in Newton County, MS to the late Paul Richard Rainer Sr. and the late Mable Estes Rainer. He is a proud alumni of Decatur High School, East Central Community College, The University of Mississippi, and Jackson School of Law which was later taken over by Mississippi College. Ed began practicing law immediately upon graduation and was devoted to his practice. He was an attorney at Rainer & Phillips Law Firm and practiced for over 50 years.

Ed enjoyed traveling, football, reading, and spending time with his friends and family. “Papa” as he was affectionately called by his granddaughters, loved and supported his family wholeheartedly. He was a faithful member of Crossgates Baptist Church in Brandon, MS where he had served as a Sunday school teacher and deacon for many years. He was a beloved husband, brother, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sandra Rainer; daughter, Shea Carter (Shane); two granddaughters, Anna Kate Stowers (John) and Kara Beth Stowers (Matt); two great-grandsons Eli and Drew Stowers; siblings, Connie Scott (Richard), Ricky Rainer (Annis), and Inez Dumas; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking donations be made to William Carey University to the Robert Whitehead Missions Scholarship Fund at William Carey University 710 William Carey Pkwy Box 141 Hattiesburg, MS 39401.