William K. Raines, Jr.

    William Kyle “Buddy” Raines made friends wherever he went and had a joke, a smile, or a kind word for everyone he met. He was born in Columbus, Mississippi, on April 25, 1935, and passed away on April 11, 2024 in DeLand, where he moved with his family in 1982.  Buddy served in the United States Marine Corps, studied civil engineering at Mississippi State University, and constructed many commercial buildings in Volusia County with his businesses, Thermal Protective Coatings of Florida and TPC Construction.  He was well known for devoting his time and talent, helping several local churches with building projects.  

    He is survived by his beloved family: wife Brenda, to whom he was married for 62 years, daughter Susanne Raines, of Ormond Beach, son Randy Raines (Samantha), of DeLand, and grandchildren Kyle Whiting, Jessica Raines Guillaume (Alex), Max Whiting, and Rebecca Raines.  Buddy grew up in Columbus with his treasured foster family: Aunt, Oleta Baker Coltharp and Uncle,Roger Coltharp, and cousins, the late Jettie C. Gaines of Winter Haven and David Coltharp (Kathy) of Fairhope, Alabama, whom he considered his sister and brother.  

    Buddy co-founded DeLand Laughter Society, a free comedy and music show where he was the featured comedian for more than 25 years.  He taught Bible study classes for 45 years.  He was a tennis champion in his earlier days and loved Bible study, fishing, reading, and history. He was cheerful, kind and generous, and he loved the Lord, his country, family and friends. At a future date, a celebration of his life will take place at LifePoint Community Church in DeLand April 27th at 10:30 where he and Brenda enjoyed being active members, and burial at Oakdale Cemetery in DeLand. 

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