Harriet Singletary Rayner

Obituary For Harriet Singletary Rayner

Obituary

Harriet E. Singletary Rayner

Harriet E. Singletary Rayner, 78, passed away at her home in Clearwater, Florida on May 18, 2023. She was surrounded by her children, grandchildren and treasured friends. Harriet was born on October 26, 1944, in Tarpon Springs, Florida to Harry K. Singletary, Sr. and Kinnie Faison Singletary.

Harriet, much like her husband Earl, persevered through the injustices of the Jim Crow South to become a part of the “USF 8” to graduate from the University of South Florida in Tampa. Harriet was one of the eight (8) Black students who comprised the first wave of Black students to integrate the university. She earned her Bachelors of Arts in 1968. Prior to matriculating to the University of South Florida, Harriet attended Gibbs Junior College (now known as St. Petersburg College) in St. Petersburg, Florida. Harriet completed her education by earning a Masters of Science in Human Services from Nova University in 1979.

Harriet was a proud product of the Pinellas County School system. She attended Union Academy and Pinellas High School. During the time Harriet attended, the schools were segregated. Her childhood experiences left an indelible mark on her and was integral on her path of service and faith. As a small girl, Harriet was not only known for her intelligence, but her heart to serve her community. As such, it was only natural for Harriet to begin a career as a social worker. Harriet was one of the first Black social workers in Pinellas County and went on to have a storied career of service by working for HRS, Gulf Coast Jewish Family Federation, Directions for Living, Gift of Life, and eventually retiring from Lutheran Services of Florida. During her prolific career, she established programs serving the mentally ill, many of which are still in existence in Pinellas County. She left a legacy of empowering younger social workers and helping them understand that service to others is the highest calling one can have.

In 1963, Harriet and her childhood sweetheart and forever love Earl Rayner were wedded in holy matrimony and shortly thereafter, in 1964, they welcomed their first child, a son, Michael Keith. Later, in 1981, they welcomed their second child, a daughter, Michele Kenyette. Harriet's greatest joy and accomplishment was being a devoted wife and mother.

Harriet was a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She was initiated on February 26, 1971 in St. Petersburg Alumnae Chapter. Later, she was a charter member of Clearwater Alumnae Chapter, where she remained an active member until her death.

In light of her many accolades, what Harriet was known for was her relationship with Christ. She was a mother to many. She was a licensed Evangelist Missionary with the Church of God in Christ. She served as church mother and was a member of Restoring the Remnant International Church. Her cry was “Lord, I don’t want to be lost.” Her reach went far beyond the altar and church pew. It has been said she was a hidden figure in many success stories of great men and women. These people sought her out for her wisdom, love and powerful prayers. She pushed many towards greatness and believed with God, all things are possible.

Harriet is survived by her loving children Michael (Meredith) and Michele Rayner-Goolsby (Bianca), grandson Matthew Rayner, sisters-in law Essie Mae Jones, Ann Rayner, Angeline Rayner; and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and sorority sisters.

She was preceded in death by her husband of fifty-seven (57) years Earl Rayner, Parents Harry K. Singletary and Kinnie Singletary, sister Barbara West and brother Harry K. Singletary, Jr.

Celebration of Life 11:00 AM, Saturday, May 27, 2023. Visitation Friday, May 26, 2023 6:15-7:30 PM. Omega Omega 5:00-6:00 PM. All services at Mount Zion United Methodist Church 2751 Sunset Point Road, Clearwater, FL 33759

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc requested to wear red at the funeral service.

Entrusted Care To Smith-Young's Funeral Home.