Howard Lee Rakestraw's Obituary
Howard Lee Rakestraw, age 72, of Conyers Ga entered into his eternal rest on November 20, 2017. He was the husband of Betty Ann Taylor Rakestraw and the couple created a wonderful life and home in Conyers together for over 50 years. Howard was born September 2, 1945 in Conyers, Ga. His parents, Albert Rakestraw Sr. and Odessa Ponder Rakestraw, and two of his brothers, John Rakestraw and Robert Rakestraw preceded him in death. In addition to Betty Ann, he is survived by his brother Albert Rakestraw Jr (Mae Gladys), sister Geneva Mathis and sisters in law Jeanie Rakestraw (John) and Sylvia Rakestraw (Robert).
After graduating from JP Carr High School in 1963, he served his country in the United States Air Force where he achieved the rank of Sargent and then went on to work at Delta Air Lines for 34 years. Howard had many passions. He was a music lover and was member of a band for several years. He loved to create and tinker and created many time, and money saving, devices for the home. Most importantly, he cherished his entire family. He was the beloved father of Angela Erica Bivins (Wallace), Sonja Elawn Morris (Arnold), and Gerald Taylor Rakestraw (Carrie). He was forever proud of his grandchildren (known as the 7): Dominique Bivins, Angel Haye (Johmar), Lacey Bivins, Raven Morris, Asia Morris, Taylor Rakestraw and Anna Rakestraw. He was also a loved uncle to his brother's children: Ryan Rakestraw, Darrion Rakestraw, Nikki Porter and Rico Rakestraw. Howard felt a special kinship with his in-laws. His father and mother in law, Robert and Josie Taylor preceded him in death along with sisters and brothers in law Rosa Lee Giles, Barbara Jean Stripling, Robert Taylor, Shirley Lester and Roger Taylor. He is survived by Layman (Evette), Ruth Bartley, Josephine Dardy (Otis), Willie Mae Collins (Walter), Willie Head (Jackie), Gayle Pruitt (Marvin), Debbie White (Otis), Hosea Taylor (Sheryldean). He also leaves behind a large and loving extended family that includes many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. In Lieu of flowers make donations to National Multiple Sclerosis Society; American Diabetes Association:The National Kidney Foundation:Or a charity of your choosing
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