James O. Rakestraw

James Oscar Rakestraw, age 89, of Kettering, Ohio went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on February 16, 2026, and undoubtedly heard, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” Born on September 1, 1936, in Belleville, Ohio to Frances and Earl Rakestraw, Jim spent his early life in the Mansfield, Ohio area, but decided at age 28 to pursue what he felt was God’s calling on his life. After graduating from Grace College in Winona Lake, Indiana, he spent the next 40+ years serving the Lord in Christian education as a teacher, principal, and administrator, primarily at Dayton Christian Schools. He was a long-time member of Patterson Park Church, where he served many years as a deacon. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who loved Jesus and his family.

He was a man who devoted his life to serving others, and he built a life rooted in faith and kindness. He spent his career working with students and teachers, where his patience, humor, and steady guidance made a lasting impact. He was the kind of educator people remembered—someone who listened deeply and encouraged generously.

Outside of work, he enjoyed tending to his garden, working with his hands in the soil and working with wood. He volunteered with organizations such as Operation Christmas Child and was the neighbor who was always ready to lend a hand with any project.

He was a storyteller with a remarkable gift—his stories drew people in, and his sense of humor was a perfect blend of clever and corny. His wisdom was quiet but profound, and his faith guided him in every season of life.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Janet (McQuate); his sister, Evelyn Partlow, his children, Michael (Sue) Rakestraw, Teri (Paul) Dick, and Amy (Fred) Iker; seven grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Robert; his sister, Eleanor; and grandchildren, Brian and Sara. 

Family and friends will gather from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. on Monday, February 23, 2026 at Patterson Park Church, 3655 E. Patterson Road in Beavercreek. A service to celebrate Jim's life will begin at 3:00 p.m. at the church.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his legacy of service, humor, and faith will continue to live on in the many lives he touched.

To share a memory of Jim or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.