Douglas S. Rains

Douglas S. Rains died peacefully in his sleep at his home September 25,2009. Doug was born in Malone, Texas on October 2, 1925. He graduated high school in 1942 and enlisted in the Army Air Corps. He was a member of the greatest generation. He served on a B-17 Crew flying missions over France and Germany. Upon his discharge from the service, Doug moved to Waco, Texas where he attended Baylor University, graduating in 1949, Doug began a career in radio and television while attending college. In 1952 he moved to Amarillo, Texas to become an on air sports director. While in Amarillo, Doug worked in television, radio in the public relations and advertising field. In 1978, Doug moved to Lubbock, Texas taking a position in television. In Lubbock Doug met and then married Dr. Barbara Simmons, who was at the time a Professor at Texas Tech. Doug and Barbara moved to Las Cruces in 1985 when Barbara accepted the position of Dean of the College of Education at NMSU. Doug joined the University as Development Director of KRWG-TV, the University's Public Television Station. He was responsible for raising funds. His first official retirement was from NMSU in 1994. Doug quickly "unretired" becoming vice president of business development for Community First National Bank. He retired again in 2000. Doug then began another career in public relations, working for the Department of Agriculture for the State of New Mexico until his death. Doug has been involved in public service for many years, being a great believer in giving back to the community. He began philanthropy work in the mid 1980's with the Salvation Army. He was one of the original members of the " Dress the Child Program" which provides clothing for children at no cost to their families. Doug was active in many charitable and civil organizations in Las Cruces. Some of these include the Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce, serving proudly as a Conquistador since 1986. He was on the board of "Keep New Mexico Beautiful," and the Community of Hope. Doug has also been involved in the Dona Ana Work Action Council, the Whole Enchilada Festival, Masonic Lodge, Las Cruces Rotary and many other organizations. He was proud to have been recognized as Conquistador of the year, Las Cruces Citizen of the Year, and most recently Distinguished Citizen of the Year by the State of New Mexico. Doug's wife, Barbara Simmons Rains died only seven weeks before Doug. He is survived by three sons; Brian Rains of Houston, TX and Michael Rains of Austin, Texas, and Eric Hunter Simmons. He survived by five grandchildren Jon, Brian, Brittnay, Jarratt and Kristin. One great granddaughter Mischa. A brother Jack Rains and sister Carolyn Keith. His brother