Lemuel "Lane" E. Rakes

Lemuel “Lane” E. Rakes, 84, of Bassett, Virginia, passed away on Monday, February 2, 2026, at his home. He was born on August 10, 1941, in Patrick County, Virginia, to the late Walter L. Rakes and Laura Hall Rakes.

In addition to his parents, Lane was preceded in death by his grandson, Michael Rakes; five brothers, Orben Rakes, Hubert Rakes, Oscar Rakes, Randolph Rakes, and Richard Rakes; and six sisters, Edna Duncan, Marilyn Rakes, Altrude Shively, Mildred DeHart, Gaye Worley, and Judy Hale.

Lane was employed for many years at Tultex and later worked for the Henry County Refuse Department before retiring. He was also a registered barber and cut hair for many years. In his spare time, he found great joy in restoring and working on antique cars and trucks. He worked hard throughout his life and never missed an opportunity to enjoy time with friends.  

Lane is survived by his son, Lee Rakes (Katie); two daughters, Jennifer Rakes and Bethany Rakes; five grandchildren, Jaedyn Rakes, Laura Love, Lily Newman, Rhys Rakes, and Avery Rakes; one great-grandson, Kobi Rakes; one brother, Cleo Rakes; one sister, Rena Lou Stone; his sister-in-law, Carol Rakes; and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at the Rakes Family Cemetery on Poplar Camp Road in Woolwine, Virginia. The family will receive friends at Bassett Funeral Home in Bassett at a date to be determined due to inclement weather. This obituary will be updated once arrangements are finalized.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.bassettfuneralservice.com.
Bassett Funeral Service is honored to serve the Rakes family.