Mark Rains

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Mark Allen Rains, age 64, of Joplin, peacefully passed away at his home on Sunday, May 24, 2026 surrounded by family.

Mark was born on August 16, 1961 in Joplin to the now late John Rains and the late Shirley (Block) Daubert. He was a lifelong Joplin resident graduating from Parkwood High School in Joplin. During his time in college, he met Edwina Kreighbaum. On March 31, 1984 in Joplin, Mark and Edwina were united in marriage beginning their 42-year journey of love and baseball.

Mark was employed most of his life in sales, but it was his role as General Manager and Co-Owner of the Joplin Outlaws Baseball Team from 2009 to 2023. This endeavor is what truly defined his professional legacy. His significant contributions to the Joplin Sports Authority Board in its early years is where Mark became a cherished figure in the Joplin community. His involvement with the MINK Collegiate Baseball League and serving for over 30 years as a high school football referee was a role that allowed him to further engage with his community and share his enthusiasm for sports. As a USA Baseball Host Family Coordinator, he and Edwina opened their home to countless baseball players over the years, providing not just a place to stay, but a home filled with warmth, guidance, and encouragement, extending mentorship far beyond the baseball diamond. His contributions to the sporting community were recognized with awards as MINK League GM of the Year and the Charlie Long Football Official Award.

Mark’s leadership extended to civic duties as well; for 28 years, he served as a trustee for the Village of Airport Drive, 20 of which he spent as chairman, helping shape a community he dearly loved. His commitment to service and others was again displayed as he was a co-founder and vice president of the Four States Amputee Network, drawing from his own experiences, he provided encouragement to those around him. A committed Big Brother through Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, was another way Mark was able to serve his community for many years.

Survivors include his wife, Edwina Rains, of Joplin; one sister, Missy Rains, of Joplin; brother-in-law, Eddie Kreighbaum, and wife, Chere, of Carl Junction; one niece, Paige Beck, and her husband, Statler, of Waco, and their children, Charlee and Codee. In addition to his mother, Shirley, Mark was preceded in death by his grandparents and parents-in-law, Ed and Luella Kreighbaum.

Memorial Services for Mark will be held on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at 2:00PM at Christ’s Church of Oronogo. Memorial contributions may be made to Heartland Canines for Veterans or to the Four States Amputee Network and may be entrusted to Ozark Memorial Park.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery and Crematory, Joplin.