Helen Ann Rakes

Helen Ann Cashion Rakes, age 82 of Stuart, left us on March 5, 2020 to be with her mother and father in Heaven.  She is survived by her beloved husband, Raymond Rakes of the home, daughter, Rena (John) Ferrell of Overland Park, Kansas, son, Rodney Tomich of Fayetteville, Arkansas, grandchildren, Cindy and Sean Ferrell, and great-grandson, Caleb Ferrell.

Ann was born in Jefferson, Texas to Flanoy and Louise Cashion on September 24, 1937, and was also preceded in death by a sister and two brothers.  She lived in Indiana, New York, Ohio, Louisiana and Oklahoma.  Ann grew up in San Antonio, Texas, was a part-time model and graduated from Alamo Heights High School. Ann was a member of the Rose Society, DAR, Huguenots, Red Hats and Colonial Dames. 

         Ann loved music, art, flowers, animals and her family.  Ann sang in the choir in high school and college and performed many solo recitals at weddings and choir competitions.  Ann’s passion was oil painting and she taught classes on the subject.  She won awards for several of her paintings.

         Ann met the love of her life and married Raymond Rakes in 1984 when they both worked for the Air Force in San Antonio.  Ray was her “singing cowboy”.  They enjoyed writing and making music together and loving ranch life in Floresville, Texas.  Ann and Ray made their way to Stuart, Virginia to be close to Ray’s family.  Ann loved singing in the Stuart Baptist Church choir and attending DAR meetings where she served as Chapter President.  Ann considered Virginia the most beautiful place she had ever lived and made many friendships.

         Memorial services will be held Sunday, March 8, 2020 at 3:00 pm at Stuart Baptist Church with Pastor Thomas Walker officiating.  All are welcome to attend.  Burial will be private.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, c/o Kazim Shrine Temple, 628 Campbell Ave., S.W., Roanoke, Virginia 24016 or online at https://lovetotherescue.org.  Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.moodyfuneralservices.com.