Mary Jo Rains, 86, passed away on January 11, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of charm, wit, and timeless elegance. Born to Russell & Audra Rains on December 14, 1938, in Hutsonville, IL, she grew up surrounded by the simple beauty of rural life, which shaped her love for local history and community.
Mary Jo was a woman of style and grace, always impeccably dressed, her jewelry sparkling as brightly as her personality. Though she possessed a dry humor and spoke her mind with bold candor, her warmth endeared her to those who knew her. She spent many years caring for her parents and cherished the vibrant flowers in their garden.
A lover of antiquing, she had a keen eye for treasures and once ran an antique shop from her home, sharing her knowledge and passion with others. She was also an avid crocheter, creating scarves, doilies, and dishcloths that she often gave as heartfelt gifts. Her love for animals was evident in her affection for cats and dogs, especially her cherished kitties, whose photos kept them close to her heart…