Derrick Van Rainey

Derrick Van Rainey, 55, of Ocean Springs, MS passed away Wednesday, February, 8, 2017. He will be remembered for his kind heart and a smile that lit up a room. He was born in Biloxi, MS, on July 28, 1962, to the late James and Ruby Rainey. Derrick attended Biloxi Schools and served in the National Guard and U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in 1987. He later moved to Topeka, KS where he worked for the Ford Dealership. He returned home to Biloxi, MS where he met his wife, Myrna, in 2007 and married her on his birthday. Affectionately known as “Boo-Boo,” he spent his working career as a mechanic at home and auto dealerships where he greeted many people with his infectious smile. Derrick was a member of Our Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church where he was an active member of the Knights of Peter Claver Council #25 and served on the finance committee. Derrick was preceded in death by three brothers: James Rainey Jr, Gary Lynn Rainey, and Anthony D. Rainey, and one sister: Edna L. Reynolds. Derrick is survived by his spouse, Myrna Koonce Rainey; 7 children: Shameka and Josh Rainey of Worcester, MA, Zhane’, Zyanna, and Zhiya Rainey of Topeka, KS, Rodgerick (Sheena) and Raeven Wiggins of St. Martin, MS; 8 siblings: Donald (Lilly) Rainey, Terrence Rainey, Ethel Clay, and Francis Carter, all of Biloxi, MS; Rodney (Alexis) Rainey of Jackson, MS; Jacqueline (William) Moody of Upper Marlborough, MD; Thias (James) McGhee of Harvey, LA; and Therese Hanshaw of Gulfport, MS; four grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. A wake will be held from 5:30 - 7:30 PM, Thursday, February 16, 2017 in chapel of Richmond-August Funeral Home, 184 Main St., Biloxi, MS. Funeral services from Mr. Rainey will be Friday, February 17, 2017 at Blessed Francis Seelos Catholic Church, 360 Lameuse St, Biloxi, MS; with visitation from 9:00 - 10:45 AM and Mass beginning at 10:45 AM. Interment will follow at Biloxi National Cemetery. The family of Mr. Derrick Van Rainey has entrusted his care to the professional staff of Richmond-August Funeral Home.