Raymond Scott Gaines

Raymond Scott Gaines, was affectionately known as “Buster” in his childhood years and then transitioned to “Ray” as an adult was born in South Bend, Indiana on December 28, 1953. He entered eternal rest on Friday, June 19, 2020. Ray was preceded in death by his father, Oscar Raymond Gaines, Jr., stepfather Albert Hill, and stepson Terrell Jenkins

Ray spent part of his childhood in South Bend and later grew up in Inkster, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. He loved working with his hands, especially on motorcycles and cars. He was best known for his independent thinking, but very protective of his siblings. One of the most memorable moments of his young life was running off to join a traveling carnival. But he soon returned home after sustaining an injury while maintaining a carnival ride.

As an adult, Ray worked as a mechanic at his stepfather’s service station in Columbus, Ohio. Later he moved to San Bernardino, California, initially continuing work as a mechanic, but eventually starting his career as a long-distance truck driver. He married Denise Colern and from that union a daughter was born, Diana Maria Gaines in December 1973.

Later Ray relocated to Memphis, Tennessee, where he met and married his second wife, Doroetha Hardin. After several years in Memphis, they finally settled in Chattanooga, TN, where Doroetha proceed him in death on March 1, 2020.

He leaves to cherish his memory his mother, Marilouise Hill of Pickerington, OH; his daughter, Diana Gaines of Dallas, TX; three sisters – Jacquelynn Gaines of Atlanta, GA, Yolande Gaines of Memphis, TN and Alicia Hill of Pickerington, OH; two brothers – Paul Hill (Michelle) of San Antonio, TX and Alan Hill (Kristin) of Grove City OH; stepson Anthony Boston of Chattanooga TN; an aunt – Mary Jane Carter of St. Louis, MO; six nephews – Hasan (Kenya) Graham of Atlanta, GA; Craig Hill of Lappeenranta, Finland, Cortland and Mason Hill of Pickerington, OH; Owen and Roman Hill of Grove City, OH; one niece – Keli (Edwin) Ferguson of Atlanta, GA and a host of great nephews, great nieces, cousins, and family friends.

A private service will be held at a later date.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.FamilyFuneralMemphis.com for the Gaines family.