Thomas G. Rainey, 21, of Landisville, passed away, Thursday, April 16, 2009. Born in Lancaster, he was the much beloved son of Phil and Nancy (Bartholomay) Rainey and younger brother to Patrick 25, who considered Tom his best friend.

Tommy was a 2005 graduate of Hempfield High School where he was star Offensive Guard for the Black Knights. In a unanimous Lancaster Lebanon League coaches vote he was chosen as Outstanding Lineman of the Year and Outstanding Offensive Lineman of the year and also played in the All Star Game in Manheim.

He was in his fourth year at Shippensburg University where he studied Sociology and played football on scholarship for 3 years as an Offensive Tackle. He had a heart as big as his 6'5 frame and people of all ages were drawn to his fun-loving and compassionate nature.  He loved to cook for his family, listen to music and watch funny movies. In high school he often intervened when others were being picked on or bullied. Currently, he was a house parent for Community Services Group in Lancaster, where he worked with mentally challenged adults, a job he loved. He was an animal lover who had 4 cats. Surviving in addition to his mother and father (Nancy and Phil), is a brother: Patrick Rainey of Norristown. A Paternal grandfather; Philander Rainey of Hershey. Maternal grandparents; George and Mary Lou Bartholomay of Mt. Joy. And many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Things were always much more fun when Tom was around. He will be missed but will live on in our hearts forever. He would want us all to enjoy our lives as much as he did.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at Mary Mother of the Church 530 Saint Marys Dr., Mt Joy 17552 at 11 a.m. with Rev. Louis Rodriguez as celebrant. Family and Friends will be received at the Charles F. Snyder Jr. Funeral Home and Chapel 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz Pa 17543, Monday, April 20, 2009 from 6-9 p.m. and again on Tuesday at the church from 9-1045 a.m. Cremation will follow.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to the Humane League of Lancaster County 2195 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA 17602.

To send an online condolence or for more information please visit snyderfuneralhome.com