William Earl (Bill) Rakestraw Madison, MS William Earl (Bill) Rakestraw, 78, went to heaven June 24th. He was born on January 4, 1946, to Tincie Rakestraw and Virginia in New Albany, MS. Bill, a Christian, husband, father, grandfather, brother and gentle friend to all went to be with Jesus surrounded by family. Bill displayed deep faith in his savior as he courageously fought a very tough battle. He quoted this a lot during the last 20 months, “The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with thankfulness” and he meant those words! His early working career was in the furniture supply business and later in life he made a career change to broadcast sales/management. This was a change that he dearly loved. He gained respect in this industry even though he had no previous experience in broadcast. He loved the challenges that came with the broadcast industry and the people that he had the privilege to work with each day. This is not the end for Bill, this is the beginning! ” Seek first God’s kingdom and what God wants. Then all your other needs will be met as well”. Bill is survived by his wife Gwen, his daughters Jackeye (Mickey) Bowles and Alisha Cummings. His sons Robby Rakestraw (Holly) and Bryan Young (Amy), his sister Debby Houston and grandchildren Michael Bowles, Jordon Ryals, Morgan Bowles, Davis Rakestraw, Dylan Rakestraw, Trice Rakestraw, Trevor Rakestraw, Sara Kate Cummings, Caitlyn Cummings, Hallie Young and Blake Young along with nieces and numerous cousins. He is preceded in passing by his Father Tincie Rakestraw and Mother Virginia French and sister Sheila Rakestraw. Visitation will be at Broadmoor Baptist Church Chapel from 10 until 11 am on Monday, July 1st. A funeral service celebrating his life will be at Broadmoor Baptist Church Chapel at 11 am. In Lieu of Flowers, memorial gifts and donations may be made to https://www2.breakthrought1d.org/site/Donation2? or your favorite charity.