William James Raines Sr., 94, of Lititz, PA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 16, 2016 at Luther Acres. He was born in Allentown, PA, to the late Allen J. and Mary L. Oldham Raines.

William served in the US Air Force from 1945 to 1991; he was a pilot in the 339th Fighter Group in World War II. Plus he was an active member in the Reserve Officers Association for 30 years earning the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. After returning from service, he graduated from Muhlenberg College, plus received a diploma from the Air War College in Gettysburg. He worked as a marketing manager for Atlantic Richfield Company. In his spare time he was an active member in the Lions club, volunteering at the Lititz Welcome Center, golfing, flying single engine airplanes, and traveling. William was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Lititz, Pa.

William is survived by his wife Theodora Raines of Lititz, Pa., two sons, William A. Raines and Richard J. Raines, husband of Cheryl Ore which reside locally and four grandchildren: Christine Raines, Carolyn Raines, Ellen Weitzel, and David Raines. He was preceded in death by a brother, John J. Raines.

The funeral will take place 10:30 AM, Friday, October 21, 2016 in the Chapel at Luther Acres, 600 E. Main St., Lititz, PA 17543, with Rev. Glenn A. Beard, Jr. officiating. A viewing will be held from 9:30 to 10:30 AM in the Chapel. Interment with Military Honors will take place at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, PA at 12:30 PM.