A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, Chula Vista, Calif., for Richard Andrew “Andy” Rainbolt, 53, who passed away Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, in San Diego, Calif.

Andy was born April 16, 1956, in National City, Calif., to Joe B. and Marcella Rainbolt. After graduation from Chula Vista High School, he continued his studies at Southwestern Junior College in Chula Vista. An exceptional musician, he then went on to the University of Southern California to study organ with Ladd Thomas.

In 1975, Andy accepted the position of organist/choirmaster at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, where he served faithfully for 34 years. He also taught music at the church’s school and gave private instruction in piano and organ. During his tenure there, he organized and directed a number of festivals featuring the works of J.S. Bach. As Andy took inspiration from Bach, he also offered a wealth of musical inspiration and encouragement to family members, students and friends.

Andy was preceded in death by his father and his brother George S.

He is survived by his mother of Durant, brothers James A. of San Diego and Darryl J. of Moore, Okla., and sister Susan L. of Plano, Texas.