Donald Charles Rayfield

Donald Charles Rayfield lived his life with purpose, determination, and faith. Like a runner focused on the finish line, he ran his race with endurance and he FINISHED STRONG! His journey on this earth is complete, and he now rests in eternal peace, having heard the words, “well done, good and faithful servant.”

Don was born on January 31, 1939, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to Bradley and Nell Holland Rayfield. He proudly served in the United States Army. After attending Draughon’s Business College, he began what would become a 36-year career with Roadway Express, serving as Terminal Operations Manager until his retirement. He was known for his strong work ethic, steady leadership, and the kind of dependability that earned both respect and lasting friendships.

Above all, Don was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. His faith shaped how he worked, how he served, and how he loved. He was passionate about Global Ventures (formerly Mass Evangelism of India) where he served as Vice President under Pastor Sam Chelladurai. Global Venture’s mission is to preach the gospel to those who have not heard about the love of Jesus Christ. Through that relationship, the Chelladurai family became part of Don’s family! He was deeply committed to his church home, Reynolda Church, where he faithfully served as an Elder, and Deacon. His faith was not simply something he believed — it was something he lived out every day.

Don met the love of his life while helping wash windows at his local church — a funny story and a great example of how he always found purpose while serving others! He married Beverly Tucker on December 31,1962, beginning a partnership that would span more than 63 years. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, hospitality, and steadfast love. Their marriage was a testimony to love, loyalty, and shared purpose.

Few men are kinder than Don Rayfield. He had a warm, generous heart and a playful sense of humor that put people at ease. He loved to joke, to tease gently, and to make others laugh — and he rarely missed an opportunity to do so. But beneath that easy humor was a man of deep compassion and remarkable selflessness. If something needed fixing, Don fixed it. If someone needed help, Don showed up. If there was a burden to carry, he quietly carried it. He would do anything for anyone, especially for those he loved most.

As “Pawpaw,” he found some of his greatest joy. He delighted in his grandchildren — cheering them on, encouraging them, and reminding them through his steady presence that they were deeply loved. He built playhouses and toyboxes and was there to greet each grandchild at birth.

He was able to endure his battle and find joy in the last 10 years because of God’s grace, strength, and healing power. In addition to his loving family, God used many people to bless Don during this time. Pastor Alan Wright and the Reynolda Church family were tireless in love, encouragement, and prayer. He loved being under the care of his friend and oncologist, Dr. Heather Shearer.

Don was preceded in death by his parents Bradley and Nell (Holland) Rayfield, sister Jenell Hart, his brother Tommy Rayfield, and his sister-in-law Gaynell (Inscore) Rayfield.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly; his daughter Donna (Kevin) Giddens; his son Darran (Kim) Rayfield; and his daughter Dana (Sam) Shuman. He is also survived by his sister Linda (E.W.) Hooven; his brother-in-law, Jock Hart; and his cherished grandchildren: Elizabeth (Preston) Pittman of Birmingham, AL; Lauren (Vince) Watkins of Fort Mill, SC; Tucker Rayfield of Aiken, SC; Camden Shuman of Knoxville, TN; Riley Shuman of Durham, NC; Scott Giddens of Nashville, GA; and Reece Shuman of Asheville, NC. Pawpaw was joyfully anticipating the coming birth of his first great-grandchild, Hamilton Scott Pittman (“Holt”).

Don also leaves behind dear friends whom he loved as his own children, including Reverend Samuel P. Chelladurai (Sam), his wife Munju, their son Jeevan (Anisha) and their daughter Priya (Sujith John); as well as Paul and Janet Chelladurai.

Don’s legacy lives on in the faith he modeled, the family he cherished, and the many lives he quietly strengthened through his generosity and love.

A funeral service for Don will be held at 3:00 pm on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at Reynolda Church with Pastor Alan Wright and Reverend Sam Chelladurai officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service starting at 2:00 pm. The church is located at 2200 Reynolda Rd, Winston Salem, NC 27106. The burial will take place at 10:00 am on Monday, February 9, 2026, at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Global Ventures at P.O. Box 20772, Winston-Salem, NC 27120 or to Reynolda Church, EPC at 2200 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27106. Hayworth-Miller Kinderton Chapel is assisting the family.