Catherine Raines' Obituary
Catherine Darlene Raines (née Boland), 71, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2025, at her daughter’s home in Georgetown, Texas. Catherine was born on September 25, 1954, in Jacksonville, Florida, to Carl Payton Boland Sr. and Viola Urquhart.
In her final months, Catherine was lovingly cared for by her devoted family. Prior to coming to Texas, she was tenderly supported and surrounded by love in Maryland by her son and daughter-in-law, along with their family. Upon moving into her daughter’s home, she continued to receive daily care and comfort from her family and her dedicated private nurse and friend, Mary Manwell, with the compassionate support of Enhabit Hospice. She will be cremated at Sneed-Carnley Funeral Chapel and Cremations in Lampasas, Texas.
A Celebration of Life honoring Catherine will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Lasting Tributes Cremation & Funeral Care, located at 814 Bestgate Road, Annapolis, Maryland 21401. A private family ceremony will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. A second gathering to celebrate Catherine’s life will take place later that afternoon, beginning at 3:00 p.m. at her son’s home in Bushwood, Maryland, where family and friends are invited to share stories, memories, and fellowship “until…” in true Catherine fashion.
Early Life & Education
Catherine spent most of her childhood in Jacksonville, Florida, where she was known for her warmth, curiosity, and vibrant spirit. The youngest of five children, she shared a close bond with her siblings Carl Payton Boland Jr., William Randolph Boland, and Betty Viola Thomas, all of whom preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her brother Donald Boland, who passed away shortly after birth. Catherine graduated from Raines High School in 1973 and continued her education in Alabama, where she proudly earned her Registered Nursing degree.
Career & Accomplishments
Catherine devoted her life to the nursing profession, especially in long-term care settings. Over many years, she worked with major long-term care companies, bringing leadership, compassion, and a voice for patient dignity to every role. Her passion and expertise ultimately led her to serve as Chief Executive Officer of Bay CSS (Community Support Services), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities — a mission she approached with deep compassion, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment.
Her dedication to advocacy also took her beyond the bedside. On more than one occasion, she was invited to speak to legislative audiences, including at forums on Capitol Hill, where she offered insights into the needs of nursing and long-term care. Through her work, she forged meaningful connections with public servants and policymakers in Maryland, including a close acquaintance with Congressman Steny Hoyer, helping to raise awareness about elder care, staffing, and health care policy.
Personal Life & Legacy
Catherine married the love of her life, Richard “Rusty” Russell Raines Jr., in 1980 in Jacksonville, Florida, and together they built a beautiful life over 44 years of marriage. Their partnership was one of deep devotion, laughter, and unwavering support. Catherine was a loving wife, a proud mother, and a doting “GrandMom” whose greatest joy was found in the company of her family.
Selflessly devoted to the happiness and well-being of those she loved, Catherine spent her life making sure everyone around her had what they needed — whether it was a helping hand, a word of encouragement, or a home-cooked meal from her kitchen. She was a softball coach, a Boy Scout leader, and a natural mentor who believed in nurturing the people around her. Teaching came naturally to her — especially in the kitchen — where she joyfully shared her favorite recipes and the lessons behind them. She believed that the comfort of smelling her cooking could transcend time and space, wrapping loved ones in warmth and love even when she was no longer near.
Known for her generous heart, gentle humor, and nurturing spirit, Catherine had a gift for making everyone feel at home. She found joy in simple moments — family gatherings, holidays filled with laughter, and quality time spent with those she loved most. Faith was a quiet but steady thread woven throughout Catherine’s life. Raised in the Baptist tradition, she later baptized her children in the Methodist church, creating a foundation of faith, hope, and love that shaped her family’s life for generations. She found deep joy and comfort in singing from the hymnals she cherished — songs that reminded her of God’s promises and the beauty of eternal life. Catherine believed that love was the most enduring gift of all, and she lived her faith not just in words but in the way she served, encouraged, and cared for others.
Her legacy is one of strength, compassion, and selfless care, and the love she poured into her family will continue to guide and inspire them for generations to come.
Preceded in Death & Survived By Catherine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard “Rusty” Russell Raines Jr.; her parents, Carl Payton Boland Sr. and Viola Urquhart; and her siblings Carl Payton Boland Jr., William Randolph Boland, Betty Viola Thomas, as well as her brother Donald Boland, who passed away shortly after birth.
She is survived by her children, Catherine (Scott) Knussmann of Georgetown, Texas, and Richard Russell “Trey” Raines III (Stephanie) of Bushwood, Maryland; and by her seven treasured grandchildren: Jake, Dylan, Payton, Emily, Kamryn, Reagan, and Riley. Catherine’s memory will also be cherished by extended family, dear friends, and all whose lives were touched by her kindness and grace.
“Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:23
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