Verga Mae Rainey

The Celebration of Life of Mrs. Verga Mae Rainey Verga Mae Rainey passed away peacefully at her home on March 15, 2025, at the age of 75 surrounded by her family in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Verga was born on May 14, 1949 in Crawford, Mississippi to George and Cora Ward. In the Ward Family, Verga was the fifth daughter of seven girls, affectionately known as the “Ward Girls”. The Ward Family lived in Kankakee, Illinois; however, the family frequently returned to Crawford Mississippi to visit with their maternal Grandmother, affectionately known as “Dear”. Verga grew up in a Christian home. Verga accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age. Verga was baptized at her Grandmother’s church (Oakland Missionary Baptist Church) in Crawford, Mississippi. She continued her Christian Education by becoming an active member of Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church in Kankakee, Illinois until she moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota. Verga attended Kankakee public schools and graduated from West View High School in 1967. She continued her education and became a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Upon completing her studies as a CNA, Verga worked at Riverside Hospital in Kankakee until she met the love of her life Clezell Rainey. On February 14, 1975, Verga married Clezell Rainey and moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota. Their marriage on Valentine's Day symbolized their deep love for one another, and they remained lifelong companions and best friends. To this union, they were blessed with twin sons, Shannon and Shanti, affectionately known as "The Boys”. Verga continued to work throughout her marriage. She served as a Paraprofessional in the Osseo Public School District 279 in Hennepin County, Minnesota. After many years of working, Verga retired. Verga’s retirement allowed her to follow her other passions and lifelong goals which included happily traveling with Clezell, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends. Verga and her family were members of Zion Baptist Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota. And later, the Rainey family joined Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church when it was organized. At Fellowship, Verga attended Sunday School and participated in many church activities. She served in several areas at Fellowship which included the Senior Pals Ministry and the Sunday School Ministry. Verga also served as the Sunday School Superintendent. Verga enjoyed taking care of her family and encouraged her family to follow the teachings and Christian principles of Jesus Christ. She loved life and enjoyed the companionship of her family and friends until illness prevented her from being involved in the church and in daily life activities. Verga is survived by her husband, Clezell Rainey; her sons, Shannon and Shanti; her five sisters: Voneva (Richard) Randle of Battle Creek, Michigan; Rosie aka “Doll” (Lewis) Jackson of Waverly Hall, Georgia; Eliza (Cleveland aka “Pop”) Thomas of Kankakee, Illinois; Anna (William aka “Billy”) Randle of Kankakee, Illinois; and Hattie aka "Pearl" (Murray) Cleaves of St. Anne, Illinois. A host of nieces and nephews along with many friends will miss Verga’s love and kindness. Verga was preceded in death by her parents, George and Cora Ward of Kankakee, Illinois, and her youngest sister, Ethel Ward Holmes. Verga will be remembered for her radiant smile, warm eyes, and humble yet passionate spirit that fiercely protected her family and loved ones. Although this “Angel’s Journey of Love” has come to an end, her boundless compassion and graceful spirit will never be forgotten.

Verga Mae Rainey

May 14, 1949 - March 15, 2025