Dr. James A. Rains

It is with great love and sorrow that we announce the passing of James Rains, who departed this life on October 18, 2025, at the age of 83. James passed away peacefully at his home in Blue Springs, Missouri, surrounded by his loving family and his devoted dog, Colombo, after a long and courageous battle with bladder cancer.

Born on November 15, 1941, James lived a full and remarkable life defined by service, humor, and deep devotion to family and friends. A lifelong New York Yankees fan, James’s enthusiasm for his team was matched only by the love he had for those closest to him.

James discovered his love for bowling at St. John’s Church on Strawberry Hill in Kansas City, Kansas, and developed additional talents in billiards and art. He will be remembered for his strength, quick wit, and trademark sarcasm. To those who knew him best, he was a steady rock—a loyal friend and a “pain in the neck” in the most endearing way. James never met a stranger and would help anyone in need—except, perhaps, a Boston Red Sox fan.

In 1963, James proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, completing Hospital Corpsman Basic Training and earning the title of Navy Corpsman (“Devil Doc”). From 1965 to 1967, he served honorably in Chu Lai, Vietnam, flying over 200 combat missions. His bravery and dedication were recognized with numerous awards and medals, including the Purple Heart.

Upon returning home, James earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree in 1977 from Cleveland Chiropractic College. He went on to serve his community as a chiropractor for many years while continuing his service in the Navy Reserves, ultimately retiring from the United States Navy in 1994.

James was preceded in death by his parents, Frederick and Agnes (Draskovich) Rains; his sister, Madeline (Rains) Ladek; his wife, Barbara (Rice) Rains; and his daughter, Kristie (Rains) Fiola.

He is survived by his daughter Kim (Kline) Vanalst and her husband Jerry Vanalst, with grandchildren Jennifer, Joshua, Cody, and Austin; his son Richard Kline, with grandchildren Natalie, Jacob, and Megan; and his youngest daughter Jamie (Rains) Lovingood and her husband Michael Lovingood, with grandchildren Landon, Mason, and Kellen. James is also survived by 10 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-great-grandchild, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will cherish his memory forever.

A visitation will begin at 9:00 AM, followed by his Celebration of Life Service at 10:00 AM on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at McGilley State Line Chapel, 12301 State Line Road, Kansas City, MO 64145. A brief outdoor burial ceremony will be held at 2:00 PM at Higginsville Veterans Cemetery, 20109 Business Hwy 13, Higginsville, MO 64037.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City, honoring James’s lifelong love for animals.