David William Rayford

David W. Rayford, age 82, of Demorest, Georgia went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

Mr. Rayford was born on July 13, 1943 in Washington D.C to the late Elmer Carr Rayford and Elva Izora Coghill Rayford and he was raised in Pasadena, Maryland, where he was a long time resident. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 50 years, Peggy L. Rayford; brother, John Edgar Rayford; and sister, JoAnn Rayford. In 1970, David married the love of his life, Peggy, originally from Glen Burnie, Maryland. Together, they built a life centered on love, dedication, and quiet strength. They created a home filled with love and laughter, raising their son, Larry, where they spent many happy years building memories that would last a lifetime. David dedicated many years of his career to General Electric before retiring. Never one to sit still, he proudly became the owner and operator of his auto shop, “Arundel Foreign Car,” where his passion for automobiles and his strong work ethic shone through. He also worked alongside his brother John in the car repossession business, a venture John owned, strengthening not only their livelihood but their brotherly bond. Peggy worked for over 20 years at a Hallmark store, News Center, where she was a manager, known for her kindness and warm spirit. A true enthusiast at heart, David loved the water and spent countless peaceful hours boating, taking pride in the many boats he owned over the years. He was also a devoted vintage car enthusiast, with a special fondness for muscle cars. Car shows became treasured outings for David and Peggy, days spent side by side, admiring craftsmanship and sharing stories with others. Beyond their hobbies, David and Peggy shared a deep love for wildlife. Their back deck was often visited by generations of raccoons, whom they watched and cared for with delight. Their home was also filled with the companionship of beloved cats, each cherished and treated as family.

Survivors include son and daughter-in-law, Lawrence "Larry" and Erika Rayford, of Martin; grandchildren, Amanda L. Maynard, Laura A. White (Josh), Lawrence A. Rayford Jr. (Gelisia); great grandchildren, Josh Maynard Jr., Adam Maynard, Wyatt Maynard, Gracie Maynard, Andrew Maynard, Evelyn White, Alessia White, Everett White, Jasper White, Manuel "Manny" Crespo (Rayford); and brother, Eddy Carr Rayford (Barbara); nephews, Brian Rayford, and Sean Rayford.

Mr. Rayford's wishes were to be cremated and a celebration of life will be held at a later date in Pasadena, Maryland.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel at 245 Central Avenue, Demorest, Georgia 30535. Telephone: 706-778-1700.