Obituary of Carol A. Rainford

Carol A. Rainford

Carol A. Rainford, age 82, of Joliet, passed away peacefully, Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Lightways Hospice Home with her loving family by her side. Born July 17, 1943 in Joliet, IL she was the daughter of the late Vernon L. Carey Sr. and Doris (nee McTee) Binzen.

Carol was a devoted fan of the Chicago Cubs and especially loved watching the games alongside her husband. She found great joy in spending time with family and friends, whether playing board games, cards, or joining in sports activities. In her early years, she worked for Messenger, and later dedicated nearly 20 years of service to Jewel. Above all, she cherished the time spent with her nieces and nephews.

Carol is survived by her loving husband of  58 years, Joseph; sister, Phyllis (James) Johnson; brother, Laverne (Judy) Binzen; nephews, Brian (Maureen) Carey and Matthew (Cherie) Binzen; nieces, Janet (Greg) DeNardis and Michelle (Matthew) Hunt; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her brothers, Vernon L. Carey Jr., Richard Carey, and Bill Carey; and sister, Mary Lou Carey.

Visitation for Carol A. Rainford will be held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m.  Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park.

For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com.