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Geraldine "Jerry" Alma (Mains) Rahr, 80, of Colliers, WV, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 16, 2026, at Weirton Geriatric Center, Weirton, WV, under the care of the staff, with the assistance of Valley Hospice and her loving husband faithfully by her side.
Jerry was born on May 18, 1946, in Steubenville, OH. She was the daughter of the late Walter Mains and Rachel (Broadway) Mains.
Jerry dedicated 40 years of her life to educating and nurturing young minds as a beloved elementary school teacher with the Brooke County School System. She began her teaching career at Hooverson Heights, where she taught for three years, before spending the next 37 years at Jefferson Primary School, teaching first and second grades. Throughout her remarkable career, Jerry touched the lives of countless children, providing not only an education but also the patience, encouragement, and kindness that helped shape their futures. Her dedication to her students and her love for teaching left a lasting impression on generations of families throughout the community.
Jerry was a woman of deep faith and a devoted member of the Colliers United Methodist Church, where her husband, Pastor James "Jim" Rahr, serves as pastor. Her faith was reflected in the way she lived her life, always showing love, compassion, and a willingness to help others. She was a faithful and supportive pastor’s wife who treasured the friendships and fellowship of her church family.
Outside of the classroom and church, Jerry and her husband shared their annual beach trip to the Atlantic Beach in North Carolina and always stayed at the remarkable Colony by the Sea over the last 17 years for relaxing and sharing quality time together. She had many talents that she lovingly shared with those around her. She enjoyed sewing and quilting, creating beautiful handmade pieces that will remain treasured keepsakes for years to come. Jerry was also a wonderful cook and baker, known for preparing delicious meals and special treats that brought family and friends together. Above all, Jerry’s greatest joy was her family, especially her grandchildren. Whether watching over them, sharing a special moment, or simply spending time together, she treasured every opportunity to be part of their lives. Her love as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend will forever be remembered by those who knew and loved her.
In addition to her parents, Jerry was preceded in death by her sister, Judy O'Brien and brother-in-law, Jeff Williams.
Jerry is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 57 years, Pastor James Allen Rahr of Colliers, WV; two sons, James Walter Rahr, wife, Heather, of Colliers, WV, and Mark Allen Rahr, wife, Amanda, of Donora, PA; six grandchildren, Jacob Christopher Rahr, Ravyn Artemis Rahr - formerly, Brendan James Rahr, Kalleigh Grace Rahr, Krenna Grace Rahr, Ethan Patrick Rahr and Bryson Charles Rahr; a sister, Hope Diane Williams of Mt. Vernon, OH, along with several nieces, nephews, and her beloved church family.
Viewing on Thurs from 4-7PM and Fri from 10 AM till Service at 11AM at the family-owned James Funeral Home, Follansbee, WV (304) 527-1717, with Reverend Neil Leftwich, officiating.
Interment will follow at St. John Cemetery, Haven of Rest, Colliers, WV.
In Lieu of Flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, C/o James Funeral Home, 1245 Main Street, Follansbee, WV 26037 or visit https://curealz.org.
Please add or view condolences, photos, and stories at www.chambersandjames.com.