Sharon Elaine Foster Rainey

WILTON – Sharon Elaine Foster Rainey, 81, a lifelong resident of Wilton, Maine, of the late Kenneth and Virlie Foster, passed unexpectedly.

Sharon was married to the love of her life, Robert “Buddy” Rainey, for 45 years. They set an example of loyalty and laughter. Together they created a life filled with cherished memories, especially at camp in Weld and Alder Stream, where the family embraced a life full of discovery and connecting with nature. After Buddy’s passing, Sharon found companionship and joy again with her dear friend and partner, Bob Adams.

A spirit full of adventure, humor, and heart, at 18 years old, she and Buddy, alongside her sister Gloria and husband Ralph Gordon, co-founded Dutch Treat. This became not just a local favorite, but a place where generations of high school students learned the value of hard work and community under Sharon’s fun-loving and steady guidance.

She had a zest for life and was ready for any adventure. Whether paddling across the lake, down the river, fly fishing, bowling, snow tubing, dancing without care, or simply playing cards and cribbage, Sharon lived in the moment and loved to laugh. Her playful spirit and welcoming smile made her the heart of every gathering. Leading by example, teaching those around her to be bold, laugh often, and to seek joy even in the small, everyday moments.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Buddy Rainey and siblings, Gloria and Mark. She is survived by her partner Bob Adams; beloved children, daughter Shelley and husband Stephen Finley of Melrose, Mass., daughter Alison Welch and partner Mike Rackliffe of Wilton, her son “Favorite son” Daren and his wife Tammy Rainey of Wells. Her legacy also lives on in her cherished grandchildren, Jack and wife Katie Finley and Thomas Finley and partner Mikayla Gilcreast, Jessica and husband Devin Graves, Danielle Rainey, Cordell and Aidan Welch; two great-grandchildren, Wilder Graves and Kayleigh Finley; and beloved nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are being made for a Celebration of Life.
To honor Sharon and Buddy Rainey, donations may be made to the annual Wilton Blueberry Festival in their memory.
For donations, please contact: Renee Woodard: (207) 645-3120 [email protected]
Memories may be shared in her Book of Memories at http://www.wilesrc.com. Wiles Remembrance Center of Farmington is honored to be caring for the family and services.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Sharon by sharing a laugh, taking the scenic route, or paddling out into the quiet beauty of a Maine lake — just as she would have loved.