Doris May Rehrer Gainey

Doris May Rehrer Gainey, 97, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully in her home in Hartsville, SC on August 4th, 2023. She was born on May 21, 1926, in Delaware to her loving parents. Doris will always be remembered for her incredible contributions to the textile industry and her unwavering dedication to her family and community.

Doris's career in the textile industry spanned many years. With her meticulous attention to detail and her passion for creating beautiful textiles, she became an accomplished seamstress and artist. Her work was admired by many, and she leaves behind a legacy of creativity and craftsmanship.

Beyond her career achievements, Doris had a deep love for music. For many years, she dedicated herself to serving as the church pianist until the remarkable age of 95. Her fingers effortlessly danced across the keys as she filled the sanctuary with the enchanting melodies that touched the hearts of all who heard them.

In addition to her love for music, Doris had simple pleasures that brought her joy every day. One such pleasure was enjoying breakfast at Hardee's each morning—a cherished ritual that brightened her days and served as a reminder of life's simple pleasures.

To celebrate Doris's incredible life and honor her memory, visitation will be held on Monday afternoon, August 7th, 2023, at Rivers of Living Water Church. Friends and family will have the opportunity to pay their respects from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Following the visitation, a funeral service will take place at 4:00 PM from the same location with her son, Reverend Thomas Gainey officiating. Doris's final resting place will be Rivers of Living Water Church Cemetery where a burial ceremony will be conducted following the funeral service. 

Doris leaves behind a lasting impact on those who were fortunate enough to know and love her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter & Viola Clark Rehrer; her beloved husband of 57 years, Rev. John L. Gainey; her brothers Walter Rehrer and Donald Rehrer, and her sister, Barbara Lasko.

Her memory will forever be cherished by her surviving family, including her children: John L. (Sue) Gainey Jr. of Pleasanton, CA, William Henry "Bill" (Sylvia) Gainey of Clements, MD, Alice Fay Gainey of Hartsville, Ruby M. (Everett) Sauls of Hartsville, and Rev. Thomas O. (Martha) Gainey of Hartsville.

Doris was also the cherished grandmother to: Kristen Gainey, Dr. John Gainey, Nikki Sheehy, Billie Jo Weiland, James Sauls, and six great-grandchildren. In addition to her immediate family, she is survived by her sister, Janet Mctyre and brother, Tommy Rehrer.

Doris's passion for reading and love for watching Riverdance will always be remembered by those who shared these interests with her. Her zest for life and unwavering dedication to those she loved will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to:

Rivers of Living Water Church
540 Pond Hollow Rd.
Hartsville, SC 29550

Or

The Gideons International Processing Center
P.O. Box 97251
Washington, DC 20090-7251 or by phone at 1-866-382-4253

Norton Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to be serving the Gainey family.