Charles Ernest Rains, known as “Charlie,” was born on March 14, 1952, in Delano, California, to Ernest and Carrie Rains. In 1957, his family moved to Trona, California, where Charlie spent most of his life.

Charlie graduated from Trona High School in 1970. In 1972, he married Elise “Lisa” Carr. At 20 years old, Charlie adopted Lisa’s three daughters and raised them as his own. Together, Charlie and Lisa later welcomed two more children.
Charlie worked for many years at Searles Valley Minerals at the Westend Plant. Work was a steady part of his life, and he built a long history there.
He served the community as an EMT, volunteer firefighter, and search and rescue. He also coached little league baseball and pee wee football.
Charlie was a husband and father first. He loved his family, valued his routines, and will be remembered for the simple things. Especially his pancakes and the way he showed care in quiet, everyday ways.
Charlie is survived by his five children: Cathie Rains Mayfield (husband Rick), Cynthia Rains Moreno (husband Dave), Connie Rains Hamlett (husband John), Charles “Alan” Rains, and Carriann Rains; his brother-in-law, Craig Carr; 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren; his nephew, Jeremy “Randy” Rains; his nieces, Lauren “Lexi” Pitman and Saundra Horman.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Lisa; his parents, Ernest and Carrie Rains; his siblings; Ray Rains, Freda Rains Gonzalez, Maxine Rains Mower & JoAnn Rains Wright; and two grandchildren, Michael Jolly & Charles Campos.
Charlie’s memory lives on through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friends and coworkers from the many years he spent in Trona.

Charles Ernest Rains, March 14, 1952 – January 22, 2026 | Obituaries | ridgecrestca.com