Rae Eloise Reed (Sanborn), 74, of North Haverhill, New Hampshire, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family, on June 17, 2026.

Rae was born on October 10, 1951, in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, to John and Eleanor Sanborn. She attended schools in St. Johnsbury and carried with her throughout life a strong sense of dedication, resilience, and quiet strength. At a young age, she married Walter Rainey, and together they had three children.

Rae was known for her tireless work ethic and commitment in every role she held. Over the years, she worked in a variety of positions—from her early days as a car hop waitress at the Frosty Bar, to caring for the Barnet School and the State Police Barracks in St. Johnsbury. She devoted many years to E.H.V., where she spent the majority of her working career, and later in life, she lovingly served as a caregiver to two sisters in New Hampshire.

On February 14, 1985, Rae married the love of her life, Ronald Reed of North Haverhill. Together, they shared 41 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and cherished traditions. They enjoyed attending auctions and collecting antiques, a passion that led Rae to open her own antique shop for a time. Rae and Ron also made lasting memories through family vacations to Maine, trips to amusement parks, and hosting meaningful holiday gatherings.

Rae was a talented, self-taught quilter who created countless treasured quilts for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each one stitched with love. She found joy in tending her flower gardens wherever life took her. The Christmas season held a special place in her heart; she delighted in decorating her home, baking cookies with her grandchildren and later great-grandchildren, and hosting the annual family Christmas celebration.

She also enjoyed watching birds, especially hummingbirds at her feeders, and visiting ducks at local ponds. In her final days, she found comfort in visits from a chipmunk she affectionately named “Chippy.”

Rae is survived by her beloved husband, Ronald Reed; her children, Wanda Berwick and her husband Bruce, and William “Bill” Rainey; her stepdaughters, Pam Roberts and her husband Steve, and Michelle Elliott and her husband Mark, along with their families; eight grandchildren, Krystal, Nikki, Alycia, Brittany, Jennifer, Brett, Gage, and Holli; as well as many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, John and Eleanor Sanborn; her sisters, Helen Sanborn, Mae Shatney, and Charlotte (Christie) Fisher and her husband Jerry; her son, Walter “Little Walt” Rainey III; and her nephew, Brian Sanborn.

A private service will be held for Rae with her immediate family. Those who wish may make contributions in memory of Rae, honoring her love for animals, to a local animal rescue of their choice.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the many compassionate caregivers who supported Rae throughout her health journey and in her final days, including Dr. Vijay Thadani, Dr. Tanner of Danville Health Center, the staff at Little Rivers in Wells River, Cottage Hospital, Grafton County Nursing Home, and the dedicated team at North Country Home Health & Hospice Agency.

Rae will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.