Joan Charlene Rainwater

Joan Charlene Rainwater, fondly known as Nanny, made her passage to the pearly gates on November 9, 2023, from her home in Belton, Texas. With deep sorrow and immense gratitude for her life, we celebrate the remarkable journey of a woman who touched the lives of all who knew her.

A Memorial Service celebrating Joanie's life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on November 20, 2023, at Anchor of Hope Fellowship, located at 5700 FM 439, Belton, Texas, 76513. Friends, family, and all whose lives were touched by Joan are invited to join in remembering and honoring this extraordinary woman. The service will offer an opportunity to share cherished memories and stories while finding solace in the collective embrace of love and support.
She was born on September 26, 1957, in Santa Ana, California to Donald Louis Schmidt and Lois (Roberts) Schmidt.

Joan and Warren began dating in July of 1971 and married on August 10, 1974. She faithfully served beside her husband as he served the Lord in five different states and the Republic of Vanuatu (where she was given land). She worked as a bookkeeper most of her life. Joanie loved the Lord and loved to sing gospel music. The pride of her life was her children and grandchildren, and she was known to let everything go just to spend time with her grandchildren. Playing in the pool, crafting, baking, scrapbooking, and sporting events were among activities she enjoyed. She loved the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Arkansas Razorbacks, Dale Earnhardt, and a love for Coca-Cola products that could be seen in every room of her house. Although Alzheimer’s eventually stole all her abilities and memories, the last to leave was her music. She could sing every hymn and most gospel songs from memory up until September. 

Throughout her life, Nanny embraced the joys and challenges of being a mother, grandmother, and friend wholeheartedly. Her nurturing spirit knew no bounds as she provided unwavering support and unconditional love to her children and grandchildren. Nanny understood the power of family bonds and always stressed the importance of cherishing these precious relationships.

Joan found solace in her faith at Anchor of Hope Fellowship in Belton, Texas. Her religious devotion inspired others to seek comfort and strength through their own spiritual journeys. The impact she made within her community reached far and wide as she extended a helping hand to anyone in need. Compassionate by nature, Joan selflessly volunteered for various charitable causes throughout her life, leaving behind a legacy of empathy and generosity.

Preceded in death by her parents Donald Louis Schmidt and Lois Helen (Roberts) Schmidt, a nephew, Mark John Winchester, a niece, Chloe Groom, and also by her second set of parents, Mike D. Rainwater and Billie Jane (Rogers) Rainwater. Through marriage she became the daughter they never had.

Joan is survived by her husband of 49 years,  Warren Rainwater, a daughter, Jennifer & Wayne (who she could remember to the end) Jacobs, a son Jonathan & Cassie Rainwater, a brother Don (Myreen) Schmidt, sisters Patty Roberts, Kathleen Groom, Tina (Mel) Elben, Mary (Bryan) Moree, Brothers-in-law: Michiel (Shirley) Rainwater, Ron (Betty Ann) Rainwater, Larry (Heather) Rainwater, Tim (Carol) Rainwater. Grandchildren: Crystal Jacobs, Brandon Jacobs, Dalton Jacobs, Autumn Brooke Jacobs, Peyton Jacobs, Noah Jacobs and Riley Rainwater as well as many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family requests that donations be made to Anchor of Hope Fellowship’s youth recreation fund. 

Anchor of Hope 

5700 FM 439

Belton, TX 76513