Howard Rayfield

A graveside service will be held at 12 noon on Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026, at Crown Memorial Park located at 9620 Rodney Street in Pineville.

Howard was born in Bessemer City, NC to the late Russell and Sallie Toney Rayfield on August 5, 1933. He served in the Navy during the Korean War and later held a career spanning decades as a supervisor within the Piedmont Natural Gas Company. He was a devoted husband of 63 years to his beautiful wife Jill Rayfield (Knight) of London, England. Together they raised three children.

Howard's devotion, kindness, wisdom and quiet strength marked him as an outstanding father. He taught his children to be grounded, yet to explore their God-given talents. Howard was known for his cheerfulness, easy manner of speaking and his deep personal concern for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Howard is preceded in death by his wife Jill, just three short years ago. He was also preceded in death by brother Boyd Rayfield and wife Alma Lee, brother Mutt Rayfield, sister Florence Lankford and husband Raymond and most beloved sister, Mary Jane Bumgardner.

He is survived by his daughter Kim Rayfield, son Jeff Rayfield and his wife Mary Anne, and daughter Karen Dial and husband Randy. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Jake Rayfield, Pfeiffer Ausband and husband Reid, Maddie Flannigan and husband Matthew and Raleigh Dial; plus great-granddaughter, Emmaline Ausband and great-grandson, Judah Ausband.

Howard’s children would like to express their respect and deep gratitude for the devoted care their Dad received at MerryWood on Park and the outstanding staff of Visiting Angels and Via Health Partners. Their father leaves behind many true friends and fellow Bingo enthusiasts among his MerryWood Family.

His daughters Kim and Karen are profoundly appreciative of the special care their brother Jeff and his wife Mary Anne provided Howard in his final years.

Condolences may be offered at www.McEwenPinevilleChapel.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that your chosen charity be remembered in Howard’s honor.