Sue Ellen Rainey

A strong Christian woman who loved the Lord, Sue lived her faith through her devotion to family, service to others, and joyful worship. She enjoyed boating, horses, and spending time with loved ones. Sue was a 1958 graduate of Cowan High School and later earned her associate degree in interior design from Ball State University.

Sue made history as the first woman school bus driver at Union School Corporation and continued as a driver for Nettle Creek School Corporation for several years. She established The Classic Carriage Company, where she brought joy to countless families by driving her horse and carriage for weddings and special occasions.

Music was one of Sue's greatest gifts; she joyfully played the organ and accordion at Faith Fellowship Church and Glad Tidings Church, using her talents to lead others in worship and praise.

Sue was married to her beloved husband, James B. Rainey Jr. (Jim), for 31 years. She is survived by her loving daughters: Christi Beaty (Brian), Carolyn Eley (Mike), Carla Ellis (Dan), Carrie Milliner, Cathy Walradth (Bobby), and Lynn Rainey (Camille); her sister, Betty Crouch; her grandchildren: Malachi Beaty (Michelle), Matthew Beaty (Madison), Michael Eley (Brittiny), Jacqueline Jones (Tim), Jane Eley, Crystal Salmon (Matt), Kevin Ellis (Natalie), Michelle Comp (Andrew), Mitchell Milliner, Kyle Milliner (Olivia), Tanner and Brian Walradth, Lilian, Scout and Leo Rainey; and 20 great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy.

Sue was preceded in death by her first husband of 19 years, John Bert Harris; her sons, David and Johnny Dale Harris; her parents, Eldon and Edith Haddin; her brother, Joe Haddin; and her sister, Barbara Staab. She now rejoices in Heaven, reunited with her loved ones in the presence of Christ.

Sue Ellen Rainey's greatest legacy lives on in her daughters, whom she taught to love God above all else and to serve others with kindness and compassion.

Family and friends may gather from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM, Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Harris Chapel Church, 10450 S. County Road 544 E., Selma, IN 47383. A funeral service to honor her life will begin at 12:00 PM. Burial will follow at Elm Ridge Memorial Park.