Johnathan McGowan Rainey

Johnathan Rainey                Toccoa, Georgia

Mr. Johnathan McGowan Rainey, age 44, passed away on May 1, 2025, at his residence in Toccoa, Georgia. He was born on April 18, 1981.

A 1999 graduate of Stephens County High School, Johnathan went on to serve his country with distinction in the United States Air Force. During his military career, he earned numerous honors, including the Education Ribbon, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, and the Air Force Good Conduct Medal with one device. Among his proudest achievements was serving on the elite security detail for Air Force One, providing protection for President George W. Bush.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, Johnathan continued to excel academically and professionally. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Purdue University, obtained his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), and earned degrees in both Horticulture and Culinary Arts from North Georgia Technical College. His passion for cooking led him to establish Georgia Concession and Barbecue, a business that reflected his creativity, dedication, and love for serving others.

Johnathan was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Joan Rainey. He leaves to cherish his memory his two sons, JT Rainey and Ethan Rainey; his father, John Rainey; his brothers, Johnny Taylor, Bernard Taylor, and Christopher Rainey (Tabrina); the mother of his children, Tiffany Rainey. His legacy of service, determination, and love will live on through his family and all who knew him.

Funeral services will be Thursday, May 8, 2025, 2 p.m. in the Hillcrest Chapel of Acree-Davis Funeral Home with Pastor Elias Burton officiating.  The following gentlemen will serve as pallbearers, Brandon Tate, Quincy Jones, Ryan Lynch, Brian Jernigan, Patrick Willis, DK Dooley and Jamie Maxwell.

The family will receive friends at the Acree-Davis Funeral Home on Thursday, 12 p.m. until 2 p.m.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.acree-davisfh.com.

Interment will follow in the Toccoa City Cemetery with Military Honors by the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard.  

Acree-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory in charge of the arrangements for Mr. Johnathan McGowan Rainey.