Homer Lamoyne Rains, or as he was more often known, Homer or "Homedog" to his grandchildren and friends, passed away peacefully at home in Du Quoin on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. He was 84 years old and surrounded by the love of his family.
Homer was the kind of guy who never shied away from hard work. From 1960 to 1962, he proudly served his country in the Army National Guard. He spent 34 years at Captain Mines as a dragline and equipment operator. He was also the proud owner of Rains Trucking Service. Even after retiring, he stayed busy as a bus driver and mechanic for many years.
Homer was a member of the U.M.W.A., the Masons, and the Shriners, and his faith was a big part of his life as a member of the Old Du Quoin Baptist Church. Homer was the definition of dedicated—whether it was to his work, his family, or his community.
Homer was born on January 15, 1940, in Hallidayboro, IL, to William Homer and Lorene (Bourland) Rains. On August 29, 1959, he married Lillian Mae Smith at the United Methodist Church in Royalton. She was the love of his life, and they spent 61 years building a life filled with family, laughter, and love. After Lillian passed in 2020, Homer kept her memory alive in everything he did.
Family meant everything to Homer. He is survived by his two daughters, Tracy Taylor (Bill) and Lisa Cook (Jeff), both of Du Quoin; six grandchildren: Nolen McIntire (Christa), Spencer Cook (Sarah), Shalane Jones (Stephen), Morgan Fitterer (Tyler), Cameryn Degler (Jon), and Carleigh Spain (Brandon); two step-granddaughters, Kacie Jones (Nathan) and Toni Doerr (Jeff); and ten great-grandchildren: Laina, Landry, Carter, Brantley, Emereigh, Archer, Lennon, Shay, Haidyn, and Noble, with one more great-granddaughter on the way. He also leaves behind seven step-great-grandchildren: Stella, Micah, Owen, Ezra, Jude, River, and Susie; his sister, Joan Endres; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who loved him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Lillian; his parents, William and Lorene; his sister, Lyla Jean Smith; and his brother, Bobby Rains.
Homer was known for his quick wit, his big heart, and the way he showed up for the people he loved. He was the kind of man who could fix anything, tell a good story, and make you laugh—all in the same afternoon. His grandkids gave him the nickname "Homedog," a testament to the fun-loving, laid-back bond he shared with them.
He taught his family how to work hard, love fiercely, and not take life too seriously. Whether he was cheering from the sidelines, sharing a meal, or just being present, Homer made life better for everyone around him.
Services to celebrate Homer's life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin, with Rev. Ted Clark officiating. Friends are welcome to visit from 9:00 A.M. until the service begins.
Military graveside rites will be conducted by the Du Quoin V.F.W., American Legion, and the Army National Guard. He will be laid to rest at Miner's Cemetery in Royalton, IL, alongside his beloved Lillian.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Miner's Cemetery or Old Du Quoin Baptist Church and will be accepted at the funeral home.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit www.searbyfuneralhomes.com.