Jovonna Sue Rainey

Jovonna Sue Rainey, or Jo as she was affectionately called, passed away peacefully January 25th surrounded by her husband and children after a long battle with cancer.

Jovonna was born and raised in Gallup, New Mexico, to Floyd and Jackie Ratliff. She always spoke highly of Gallup and enjoyed any opportunity to show her family around town including trips to Elephant Hill or a meal at Earl’s. Growing up, Jovonna was active in her church and Rainbow Girls in Gallup and graduated high school in 1974.  Jovonna graduated with her dental assistant degree from the Bryman School. She completed the National Dental Assisting Certificate and held the Vice President position of the dental association of New Mexico. She began her job as a dental assistant after graduation, however she really found her career with the practice of Dr. Dan Richey. She served with Dr. Richey’s office for over 30 years.

Jovonna met the love of her life, Tim Rainey, on a blind date during a cold December Christmas party. They were quickly engaged and married 9 months later. They welcomed their first child, Benjamin, in 1984 and Jessica followed in 1986. Jovonna dedicated her life to her family.   In retirement, Jovonna became an avid quilter and made precious treasures for many of her loved ones and started “strawberry patch quilting”.

Jovonna was a faithful servant of her church and took many roles including Sunday school teacher, Bible school worker and musician. Most recently, she played the timpani in her church Christmas musical this past December.

Jovonna was a proud grandmother to her four precious grand-babies Emmea, Oliver, John and Joey. She was also an ‘unofficial grandma’ to many other lucky children. She was the best “CiCi”, grancy and grandmother and will be missed greatly.

A celebration of Jovonna’s life will be held Saturday, February 5th at 10:00 am at Del Norte Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, Jovonna requested donations be made to the New Mexico Baptist Children’s home in her honor.