Dr. Lee Edward Rayford

Lee Rayford was born to be Lord of the Manor. He took meticulous care of the women in his life: Billie, Vickie, Celese, Billie’s Alpha Kappa Alpha ladies, his ladies at Doolittle Senior Center, and every friend who touched the life of his family. Ever the quiet and gentle soul, his strength brought success in every endeavor.

His parents Arthur and Annie Morgan Rayford introduced him to the world on November 24, 1935, in Fordyce, Arkansas. As with all children, he became a star in their eyes and hearts. He shared that honor with his siblings Rosie L. Rayford, John Lee Rayford, Josie Edwards (all deceased) and his surviving brother James Edwards (Cynthia) of North Las Vegas, NV.

The love bug attacked Lee on two occasions during his life. He married LaNeal Lucas in 1964, and they remained married until her death in 1990. Their daughters, Vickie A. Rayford and Celese Rayford Gordon (Aaron), became the apples of his eyes. Devoted son-in-law Aaron blessed Lee with two very active and loving grandchildren Amyaria Gordon and James Reed. Whether you wanted to listen or not, Lee happily and proudly shared stories about his grands.

Success followed Lee throughout his life. His formal education included degrees from The University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff; The University of Arkansas, Fayetteville; and an earned Doctorate in Education from Texas A&M University, Commerce. He was also an Air Force veteran.

Dr. Rayford spent thirty years as an educator in the Clark County School District. His resume included classroom teacher, Title I program assistant, and school administrator from which he retired in 1996. He also served as principal of Redeemer Lutheran Elementary School and Tech World Charter Schools.

Other service-related activities in his life included membership in Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, the Nevada Equal Rights Commission (appointed by Governor Robert List), and ownership of LaRay’s Record and Book Shop, as well as a barbecue restaurant.

In all that encompassed his life, Dr. Rayford was bitten by the love bug for the second time. He met Billie Knight and fell hopelessly in love. They were married in 1994 and shared mutual pastimes and endeavors. Until his transition, Lee expressed his gratitude to Billie for the years of care and comfort she provided. This includes sending her roses on their recent and final Valentine’s Day together.

Lee was happiest when spending time with family and friends, especially his ladies at Doolittle Senior Center where he served as senior assistant. His passions included collecting coins and Black Heritage stamps, searching his extensive recipe collection, collecting children’s books, supporting the West Las Vegas Arts Center Summer Program, and traveling. In all of his accomplishments, he was most proud of his daughters Vickie and Celese, and Billie, his wife of twenty-six years.

Loved by all who grieve his departure, we can say he fought a good and laborious battle, and he gave us miracles we never expected. He now rests with the angels as he lives on in our memories. Remember that grief is the price we pay for love.