William D. Raines

William “Billy” Raines, 73, passed away peacefully in the early hours of July 25, 2026. Known affectionately as Uncle Billy to all who loved him, Bill to his wife Nancy, and Dad to their son Jacob, he was a devoted husband and father whose love was steady, gentle, and unwavering. His quiet strength and patient guidance shaped his family’s lives in ways that will never be forgotten.

After retiring from General Motors, Bill embraced his true passion—ranching. He began on a small ranch in Basehor, Kansas, later moving to a larger ranch west of Holton. There was not an animal Bill wouldn’t care for. From an alligator to pigeons, sheep, cows, and horses, he found joy in tending to God’s creatures. Any dog that wandered onto his land was welcomed, fed, and loved until it naturally became part of the family.

Bill’s deep understanding of animals extended to his comprehension of humanity. As mostly a loner, Bill carried a quiet intuition about people. He had a remarkable ability to recognize goodness in others, even strangers. Once he sensed the kindness in someone’s heart, Bill would gladly help them with any task they needed, offering his time, strength, and generosity without hesitation.

Bill’s love of the outdoors and his gentle nature extended far beyond his home. To his nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and every young person who crossed his path, Uncle Billy offered a place of wonder and learning. He delighted in teaching them to fish, explore the garden, pet the livestock, or simply appreciate the quiet beauty of nature on the ranch.

Bill was born on July 21, 1953, in Kansas City, Missouri. He was the son of Bill and Margaret Raines and the older brother of Mark and Devin, all of whom have preceded him. He is survived by his wife Nancy, son Jacob, his two grandchildren, Rebeca and Alexander, his two aunts, Wanda and Vivian, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was, in every sense, a gentle soul—kind, patient, and endlessly giving. Uncle Billy will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his legacy of love, compassion, and simple joys will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Graveside Service will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, July 30, 2026 at Fairview Cemetery in Goff, KS. Family requests casual dress. Mercer Funeral Home in Holton is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be given to the Salvation Army c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.