Laura Vannièr Rainwater

Laura Mauricette Vannièr Rainwater, age 93, died Monday April 12, 2021 peacefully at her home in Knoxville, Tennessee. She was born December 5, 1927 in Paris, France. (Le Vesinet). Her proud french heritage and culture was a pervasive influence throughout her life.

Laura (Grandmère) was the matriarch of the family. She was a shining example as the heart and soul of our family. She was our rock- always giving and always there to encourage, support and uplift each of us whenever called upon.

Her unyielding courage inspired us, and her genuine kindness always made you feel loved. Though she will be greatly missed, Laura (Grandmère) left a roadmap of the legacy she would want the family to honor and follow on their journey of life.

 She had a servant's heart and was utterly selfless as she always put others needs before her own. With her unbridled spirit and kind heart, she offered wisdom and guidance to all who knew her. Laura (Grandmère) was such an inspiration and blessing to many. She was a good friend and she was the consummate mother and grandmother.

 Laura had an unwavering faith in God. She shared her faith not by words but through her actions and how she lived her life. Her faith was her strength and guide. A devout Catholic, Laura was an avid supporter of her church and its services, such as the Ladies of Charity. She was a member of Saint Albert the Great Catholic Church.

Laura (Grandmère) enjoyed reading, playing Bridge, gardening and nature. She was a lover of all animals, especially her pets. She was deeply involved with her granddaughters and also their families' activities. She loved taking trips and traveling with her family. What brought her most joy was spending time with her family. She was exceedingly proud and devoted to her son George. 

She is survived by her son, George Vannièr Rainwater (Michelle); 4 granddaughters, Lisa Kobli (Joe), Catherine Sompayrac (Howie), Laurie Gratz (John), Sarah Pullen (Andy); 7 great grandchildren, Corey, Catie, and Nathan Thress, Gigi and Luke Sompayrac, Claire and Maddie Gratz; sister-in-law, Florence Rainwater.

She is preceded in death by her husband, George Stanley Rainwater; beloved daughter-in-law, Mary Catherine Riikola Rainwater; Mother and Father, Aimee Lethias Vannièr and George Maurice Vannièr; father-in-law and mother-in-law, George Mitchell and Lucy Rainwater; brother-in-law’s, Raymond and Gene Rainwater; sister-in-law, Wilma Knisley.

The family will receive friends from 10:00am-11:00am on Saturday, April 17, 2021 at St. Albert the Great Catholic Church. A funeral mass will follow with Father Chris Michelson officiating at 11:00am. 

Donations can be made in her memory to St. Joseph School.

Gentry Griffey Funeral Chapel is honored to serve the Rainwater family and invites you to view and sign the online registry. 

“Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring praise at the city gate. 

Proverbs 31: 29-31 

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