2023 Distinguished Service Award Winner
Dr. Joseph F. Rainey graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville prior to earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in 1959. Following his graduation from dental school, he served as a dentist in the United States Air Force and continued his service with the Tennessee Air National Guard until 1999, retiring as a Lt. Colonel. In 1989 Dr. Rainey received the Air National Guard Dental Officer of the Year award, in addition to commendation and achievement medals from the USAF.
Dr. Rainey practiced general dentistry for 47 years at his private practice in Clinton, TN. In 1991, Dr. Rainey became a faculty member in the Department of General Surgery at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine and continues his work as an instructor to residents and students to this day. In 2021, he was awarded the GSM Spirit Award, which recognizes a faculty member who exemplifies the spirit of the Graduate School of Medicine upholding and promoting the mission to colleagues, residents, students, staff, and the community.
Since 1961, Dr. Rainey has actively served on many professional organizations, such as the Tennessee Dental Association, American Dental Association and the Second District Dental Society being honored as the Second District Dentist of the Year in 1998. He is a Fellow of the American and International College of Dentists. He is the Past Chairman of the Seminars Abroad Committee and served as Vice President from East Tennessee of the Tennessee Dental Association. Since 1968 Dr. Rainey has held various offices within the East Tennessee Academy of Dental Practice Administration and served on the Board of Directors at Delta Dental Plan of Tennessee from 1970–2014 and served as treasurer, secretary, vice chairman, and chairman of the board.
Dr. Rainey is also active within his community and church. He has been on the Anderson County Election Commission since 1968 and is the current Chairman. He is a member of the American Legion among other civil responsibilities. He currently lives in Clinton, TN, with his wife Pam. They have two daughters, two grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. He and Pam are also big supporters of the Tennessee Vols!
