of North Little Rock, AR
August 30, 1954 - November 8, 2023
Stephen D. Rakes left this earthly plane on November 8, 2023. He was greeted in Heaven by his mother, father, brother and a host of other family members and friends, who we know were thrilled to hear his deep, baritone voice join their choir. Here on earth, we will miss Steve, beloved husband, father, grandfather, father-in-law, uncle, cousin and friend. He was many things to so many people.
Steve was born August 30, 1954 in Fort Smith, Arkansas to mother, Cristle Jean Rakes, father, James Rakes and older brother, Mike Rakes. He was a skilled music engineer and found his place among the music community, recording local musicians. He was saved when he was 17 and anyone who knew Steve knew his love for the Lord. In a close second place, he loved his wife, Sherry. Steve married her on his birthday in 1973 and was smitten with her for 50 years. They had two sons, Sam and Matt, who share his love of music and quirky 80s movies. Steve worked hard to provide for his family throughout his 42-year career at AT&T. In retirement, Steve enjoyed being Pop to his two grandsons and singing in his praise quartet, The Representatives. We would be remiss to not mention his affinity for Mexican food.
Many people love and will miss Steve, his kind, caring ways, his boisterous laughter, the comfort his presence could bring to a room, but during this time, we hold in special prayer his wife, Cheryl Lynn Rakes; his sons, Samuel Lynn Rakes and Stephen Matthew Rakes (Brandy) and his grandsons, Oliver and Dexter all of North Little Rock. Steve was always there for his family, and his family was there for him until his very last breath. Through the pain and the tears, we look upward to let him know we cherish the time we have here but await the day we'll see him again.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Memorial services will be held on Friday, November 17th at 6:00 PM at Roller-Owens Funeral Home in North Little Rock.
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31 Condolence(s)
L. Bruce Lantz
Sunday, November 26, 2023
Steve is my very closest friend. We worked together for years. Steve is the most honest and caring person I have ever known. My wife (Linda Jeannine Lantz) live in North Carolina and were unable to attend the funeral.
A note to Sherry: Please remember that we want you to visit us as soon as you feel comfortable.
With love to Steve and Sherry,
L Bruce and Jeannine Lantz
Joyce Butler-Smith
Saturday, November 18, 2023
Met Steve when I was a frame attendant coming into the office with this big laughing voice and red hair. Working with Steve in Circuit Order, group going to Lil's for chicken and dumplings and homemade pies were a lunch time treat. Don't forget Steve's homemade toffee. Will miss him. He had a deep love for his family. Condolences to Sherri and family.
Linda Ransom
Friday, November 17, 2023
What an honor to have known and worked with Steve. He was a true light of sunshine in a dreary place. Regardless of the problem he was always there to take it apart and find the answer. I loved his singing and know he is having a wonderful time in heavens choir.
Ginny Glenn
Friday, November 17, 2023
I will miss my big brother. I loved him so much. He was always there for me (and Tara).
Sherry, Sam, Matt, Dexter and Oliver, my heart breaks for you. He loved you with all of his heart and was so proud and grateful for you.
He is in his heavenly home now with his heavenly Father and has been reunited with the loved ones that had left before. I pray that you have peace and comfort.
Larry and Darla Smith
Friday, November 17, 2023
We are so sorry to learn of Steve’s passing.
Steve was truly a “Beacon of Light” where ever he was.
May God’s PERFECT PEACE surround this precious family today and the days ahead as you cherish the many precious memories Steve has created for each of you.
May God Bless You All
Larry and Darla Smith
Cathy (Crenshaw) Hayes
Friday, November 17, 2023
We will miss Steve on this earthly plane, but we rejoice in knowing his work continues in the presence of the Lord. Not many can live their whole lives as an example to others, but Steve surely did. Our hearts grieve and rejoice with all of you. Much love.
Marty Gassaway
Friday, November 17, 2023
My deepest condolences to Sherry, Sam and Matt. Steve was a wonderful guy and co-worker. Our cubicles were across from each other for many years. We shared many laughs and frustrations in that time. The only thing that Steve loved more than chocolate cake was the deep and abiding love that he felt for his wife and family, that he demonstrated at all times.
Rest in peace, Dear Friend, and sing with the angels.
Jim Greenwald
Friday, November 17, 2023
Sherry and family,
So very sorry for your loss of this really good man , father , and husband. We started our careers together and I have always been thankful for his friendship and dedication to his faith. Prayers for y’all as we honor his very full life.
Jim
Jefferson Penn
Friday, November 17, 2023
Steve will be missed greatly by the members at Pilgrim Rest MBC. We are so thankful for the Rakes family connection to our church. Steve and the Representatives did an amazing concert for us on October 8th, and it will live on in our hearts. Our prayers go out to Sherry and the family and the Browns. We were all blessed to have known him.
Randy B Clifton
Friday, November 17, 2023
We love you guys, and are praying for you daily.
Nancy and Allen Gardner
Friday, November 17, 2023
We are both completely heartbroken. Over the years we've always looked forward to visiting with you and Steve, he will be dearly missed. We will cherish those memories and pray God brings you peace.
Sending our thoughts and prayers to all those who loved Steve. Nancy and Allen Gardner
Gary Eberle
Friday, November 17, 2023
I am so sorry to hear about Steve. He was a really good man, and so devoted to you and your boys. My mother spoke very highly of you and Steve and loved having you in her church. Everyone he met loved him.
Gary Eberle
Blanche Frazier
Thursday, November 16, 2023
May fond memories ( I ‘m sure there are many) sustain you in the days, months, and years to come. Steve will surely be missed
Vera McCray
Thursday, November 16, 2023
I worked with Steve in the CPC department for several years. He was a sweet kind man who always greeted you with that generous smile. He always talked about his Sherry with a look of pride and devotion on his face. To his family I offer sincere condolences and warmest prayers. God bless you all.
Faye Bohannon-Humphrey
Thursday, November 16, 2023
My thoughts and prayers for the Lord to encompass Steve’s family with His Peace and Comfort during this difficult time. Steve was a great coworker who was always kind and helpful.
Pam McPherson
Thursday, November 16, 2023
So sorry to hear about Steve. He was such a fighter. Love to Sherry and the boys??
Sue Simmons
Thursday, November 16, 2023
Steve will be greatly missed!! I worked with him over the years, and he was a great guy!!! His family always came first! Prayers for the family, during this time.
Kim Fowler
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
Sherry & family,
We are so saddened to hear of Steve’s passing. So thankful he is with his Savior & no longer suffering. We have wonderful memories of times with y’all at UVB & seeing Steve sing with the Representatives. What a blessing to heaven’s choir!
Our thoughts & prayers are with you all. May God’s peace, grace & love comfort & strengthen you in the days ahead!
Love,
Tim & Kim Fowler
Bill and Kim Ramsey
Tuesday, November 14, 2023
We are deeply saddened by the loss of a good friend and music man. You always knew when Steve entered a room. Everything seemed a little bit brighter. He simply beamed of love and light. Then you saw that smile of his and everything in the world was all right. He loved music and always supported my musical endeavors for which I am most grateful. Happy trails dear friend. Until we meet again.
Peggy Avery Phifer
Monday, November 13, 2023
Sherry, My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Mom called with the news and I was stunned. It was so good running into you a few weeks ago and getting to hear Steve sing. My prayers are with you and you family during this difficult time.
Peggy Avery Phifer
Monday, November 13, 2023
Sherry, My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Mom called with the news and I was stunned. It was so good running into you a few weeks ago and getting to hear Steve sing. My prayers are with you and you family during this difficult time.
John and Robyn Berner
Monday, November 13, 2023
So sorry to hear of Steve's passing. The last time we saw him was when his group sang at our church a few months ago. His passing was a shock. Our hearts broke for you, however, we know he is singing for our Lord and Savior in heaven. You and the family will be in our prayers as you mourn the loss of such a sweet, gentle man.
Bob Ellis
Monday, November 13, 2023
I wanted to extend my heartfelt condolences to Sherry and Steve's family. I have know Steve for over 40 years. Each time I saw him he always brought a smile to my face. Take comfort in knowing he is in the hands of God.
JOHNNY L. BROWN JR. (BUD)
Sunday, November 12, 2023
We love you all so much. Sherri, please know we are so very sorry. Family, if there is anything we can do to help you guys in anyway, we would be honored to help. We pray that God eases your suffering and grants you understanding and wisdom going forward.
Margaret Ann Niven
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Sherry,
My friend, Jan, informed Len and me this morning of Steve’s passing. I remember Mike telling us Steve had been very ill. Our heartfelt condolences to you, your sons, and the entire family. We love the entire Rakes family. I hope you remember we live in Jackson, Mississippi now.
Bruce R. Bailey
Sunday, November 12, 2023
My sincere condolences to the Rake family. I worked with Steve at SWBT in Little Rock many years ago. Steve was always of good disposition and good to work with. He will be remembered for the great guy he was. My thoughts, prayers and best wishes for you all at this time.
Jay and Lisa Bruno
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Sherry, Matt and Sam and family,
We mourn Steve’s passing. We will miss his kind spirit, his smile, and will hold on to the memories that we shared together for over 50 years. Prayers for all of you. May God hold you in God’s almighty hands.
Blessings and Peace,
Jay and Lisa
Sandi
Saturday, November 11, 2023
Sherry, it was a shock to me to hear of Steves passing. I knew he had gone back into the hospital. Didn't expect this. Deepest Sympathy to you and your family. I will be seeing you at the service. Just knowing he is home with Jesus is the best assurance you can have..I'm here for you if I can do anything for you. Sending Love, Hugs, and Prayers.v
Scott and Bekka Hunsperger
Saturday, November 11, 2023
Sending love and prayers
Rebecca Cockrum
Saturday, November 11, 2023
My heart goes out to your family. Steve’s love and laughter was infectious. He made such a huge impact on me and I considered him my second dad. I loved him very much and am so sad to hear that he is gone. It’s comforting to know he’s leading all the angels in song. Such an amazing man!
Peggy Brigman Hearne
Saturday, November 11, 2023
Love and prayers won’t stop. My heart aching for you all. So grateful Steve loved the Lord. He was a great servant.
Love, Peggy