JOHN CLARK GAINES

John Clark Gaines, age 96, a resident of Richard Campbell Veteran’s Home, formerly of Iva, passed away on Monday, December 2, 2013.  Born in Elbert County, Georgia, he was son of the late Zan Gaines and the late Bessie Cordele Gaines.  For sixty-six years, he was the loving and faithful husband of the late Etta Angeline Gaines.

Mr. Gaines was a loom fixer at Jackson Mill in Iva until his retirement.  He also was a cattle farmer.  John Clark proudly served his country in the US Army during WWII where he earned the Purple Heart in Germany, as well as the Good Conduct Metal.  He was a member of the Iva American Legion Post and a former Trustee of Iva Rescue Squad.  Mr.  Gaines was a member of New Bethel Methodist Church in Elbert County, GA, where he served as treasurer.   

Survivors include one brother, Leon Gaines and his wife, Pauline of Elbert County, GA; one sister, Jennie Thompson of Iva, and a long time caregiver, Renea Hanks.  Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews who were like his children.   

In addition to his parents and his wife, Etta, John was preceded in death by brothers Swift, Charles, Elmer, and George Tom Gaines; and a sister, Sara Wyatt. 

The funeral service celebrating the life of John Clark Gaines will be held Friday, December 6, 2013, at 3:00 p.m. at New Bethel Methodist Church, 3223, GA Hwy. 368, Elberton, GA, with Rev. Kathy Howard officiating.  Interment will follow at the Iva City Cemetery with military honors.  The family will receive friends at New Bethel Methodist Church on Friday, December 6, 2013, from1 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. 

The family suggests contributions in memory of Mr. Gaines may be made to Hospice of the Upstate, 1835 Rogers Road, Anderson, SC 29621.

A message of condolence may be sent by visiting www.mcdougaldfuneralhome.com.