Thelma Jean Rakes

Thelma Jean “Jean” Rakes, of Bentonville, Arkansas, passed away on August 18, 2026, in Springdale, Arkansas, at the age of 85. She was born February 21, 1941, in Sibley, Missouri, to Thomas and Lydia (Gregg) Rinacke.

Jean was raised in Sibley and Napoleon, Missouri, in a close rural community. She attended Fort Osage School and completed her final two years at Wellington High School in Missouri.

She shared 66 years of marriage with her husband, Charles D. Rakes, and together they made their home in Bentonville. Jean worked in data processing for Walmart for 33 years, though her greatest devotion was always to her family.

Jean was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her husband, Charles; her daughter Crystal Featherston and husband Sam; her grandchildren, Chandra Perkins (Perk) and Kayla Geigle (Weston); and her great-grandchildren, Dylan, Samuel, and John Perkins, and Luke and Lydia Geigle. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, James and Harold Rinacke.

Jean was known for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was independent, nurturing, and deeply family-oriented, with a lifelong love of life, travel, and adventure.

She especially cherished time with her family, including travels throughout the United States and Europe, such as a two-week trip to Italy with Crystal and trips with Crystal and her great-granddaughter Dylan to several U.S. cities.

Jean found joy in gardening, piano, cooking, reading, and collecting antiques. Her home was often filled with the aroma of her cooking, including her well-loved chili relleno casserole. She enjoyed Mexican food, NFL football, her cat Violet, and surprising loved ones with thoughtful gifts and good news.

Holidays were especially meaningful to her. At Christmas, she delighted in decorating, preparing large meals – often featuring Mexican dishes – and gathering her family together. At Easter, she hosted meals and an annual egg hunt, creating lasting memories.

She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, genuine smile, and the deep love she gave so freely. Her family will remember her gardens, cooking, piano playing, traditions, and the many ways she made them feel valued and loved.

Most of all, they will remember how completely she loved them. She gave her family her all. What a beautiful gift.

A graveside service will be held for Jean on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 10:00AM at Bentonville Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Circle of Life Hospice (901 Jones Road, Springdale, AR 72762), or New Home Church (c/o Jim White, P.O. Box 1352, Bentonville, AR 72712).