Brother John Lewis Gainer, 76, went to be with Jesus, December 13, 2024 in Brandon, Florida. Born in Louisville, MS and raised in Noxapater, MS he was the son of John Ellis Gainer and Osie Haze Gainer.

Reverend Gainer was called to preach God's word at 17 years of age and served faithfully for 56 years. He retired from Friendship Baptist Church in Columbus, MS in 2020 after 17 years, and moved to Brandon, FL. In addition to pastoring several East Mississippi churches, Brother Gainer was a public-school educator for over 23 years teaching high school English at both Maben and Hamilton Schools where his students called him "Pop" Gainer. He was a wonderful father figure to many. Brother Gainer was a Mississippi State University alum and is a member of New Hope Church in Brandon, FL..

Brother Gainer was pre-deceased by his parents, as well as brother, Don Ellis Gainer, sister, Kanda "Candy" Gainer Blount, and former wife of 34 years, Linda Monette Ingram Gainer.

Brother Gainer is survived by his wife of 19 years, Dr. Donna Carol Gainer of Brandon, FL, daughter Melissa Holekamp (Greg), and grandchild Toby Holekamp all of Decatur, MS. In addition, he leaves two treasured nieces, Amber Gainer (Noxapater) and Casey Blount Williamson (Terrance) of Conehatta, MS. Also, two grand-nephews Aydon Gainer and Degand Williamson.

Celebration of Life Service will be at New Hope Church, Brandon, FL, on Monday, December 16th at 4pm.

A visitation will be at Welch Funeral Home, Starkville, MS on Friday December 20th from 1pm to 2pm. The service will be at 2pm with interment following at Center Grove Baptist Church, Maben. Reverend Russell Mord will be officiating services.

In lieu of flowers, you may send a donation in memory of John Gainer to New Hope Church Family Ministries, 213 N Knights Ave, Brandon, FL 33510.