Joel Christopher Rakestraw
Saltillo- Joel Christopher Rakestraw, 51, passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2025 at the NMMC. He enjoyed telling stories, gardening, fishing, cooking, traveling, and he had visited 29 states. He loved animals, spending time with his family and friends. Joel loved sharing the Lord’s words, preaching wherever he was needed.
Funeral services will be held at Waters Funeral Home on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 @ 11:00 a. m. with Bro. Gaylon Young officiating. Burial will be in Union Cemetery.
He is survived by his wife, Bobbi Jo Pounds Rakestraw; his mother, Annette Rakestraw; son, Tommy Rakestraw (Sarah); step-son, Austin Grant; brother, Kevin Todd Rakestraw (Kay); host of nieces, nephews and other family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Bud Rakestraw and a sister, Tammy Bridges.
Pallbearers will be Ray Thrasher, Joe Bridges, Mike Bennett, Kerry Scruggs, Jonathan Ford,Gregory Vinson, Kobe Chambers, Octavious “Tay” Williams.
Visitation will be at Waters Funeral Home on Monday evening from 5:00 – 8:00 p. m. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 9:00 -11:00 a. m.
