Jimmy Rane: The Philanthropic Pioneer and Richest Person in Alabama

Tyler Suess
3 min readOct 10, 2023

In the heart of the southern United States lies the state of Alabama, known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. Amidst this backdrop, one man has emerged as not only a prominent business leader but also as a champion of philanthropy. Jimmy Rane, the founder and CEO of Great Southern Wood Preserving, holds the title of the richest person in Alabama. In this article, we will explore the life and accomplishments of this remarkable individual, who has not only built a successful business empire but has also made significant contributions to his community and beyond.

Est. Net Worth: $1.2 Billion

Photo by Mathieu Stern on Unsplash

Building a Lumber Empire

Jimmy Rane’s journey to becoming the richest person in Alabama began with humble beginnings. Born in Abbeville, Alabama, in 1947, he came from a family of entrepreneurs who instilled in him a strong work ethic and a passion for business. In 1970, Rane founded Great Southern Wood Preserving, a company specializing in pressure-treated lumber and related building products. Over the decades, he transformed this small business into a lumber empire with a significant presence in the industry. Today, the company operates in multiple states, providing essential materials for construction projects nationwide.

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Tyler Suess

Electrical Engineer with a newfound interest for writing. Everything environment, animals and more!