Michael Robert Rainbolt

IN MEMORY OF: Michael Robert Rainbolt Serving Location: CRAIN FUNERAL HOME – ANNA 135 West Vienna Street, Anna, Illinois Michael Robert Rainbolt, 77, passed away on August 13, 2026, in Illinois. He was born February 13, 1949, in Mound City, Illinois, to Henrietta Rainbolt Smith Meisenheimer. Michael was the oldest of five children. He was preceded in death by his mother, Henrietta, who passed away earlier this year, and by his four siblings, Paul Smith, Silas Smith, Tommy Smith, and Karen Dover. As a young man, Michael served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam era. He spent most of his life in Illinois, but life eventually took him to Ashland, Kentucky, where he made his home for many years. In time, he found his way back to Illinois, where he was surrounded by the people and places that had been part of his life from the beginning. Michael was happiest when he was working with his hands and creating something. He had a love for woodworking and enjoyed building things from wood and drawing. He also had a lifelong appreciation for antique and classic cars and enjoyed admiring them. He had a creative mind and a talent for taking an idea and turning it into something with his own two hands. Like all of us, Michael's life wasn't perfect, and he didn't always get everything right. But a person's life is made up of much more than their mistakes. Michael loved his family, and he leaves behind memories, stories, and pieces of himself that will continue through the generations that follow him. He is survived by his daughter, Tracy Rainbolt-Harris; his son, Nathan Rainbolt; his significant other, Carol Stokes Watkins; 10 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his uncle, Ron Smith, along with surviving aunts and uncles, many nieces and nephews, extended family members, and friends. Michael lived 77 years, but his story will continue with the family he leaves behind, in the things he created with his hands, and in the memories of the people who knew and loved him. He was a son, a brother, a father, a grandfather, a great-grandfather, a partner, and a veteran. He will be remembered. He will be missed. And he will always be Dad. A Private Burial Will be held at McGinnis Cemetery. Crain Funeral Home in Anna, Illinois is in charge of arrangements.

Michael Robert Rainbolt

February 13, 1949 - August 13, 2026