Rayshaw L. Gaddy

At the age of 92, Rayshaw L. Gaddy entered eternal rest on September 23, 2024 in Florence, South Carolina. He was born May 24, 1932 the son of the late Annie (Aunt Pree) Gaddy. He was the youngest of three siblings. A man of immense integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication, Rayshaw left a profound impact on all who were fortunate to know him.

Rayshaw graduated from Wilson High School in 1950, and later was inducted into the Wilson High School Athletic Hall of Fame. After graduation, he entered the United States Army and served two tours in the Korean War and was honorably discharged as Sergeant First Class (Calvary and Tank Battalion). 

Rayshaw was a 1958 graduate of Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina with a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education, and became a member of the Epsilon Epsilon Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. In 2006, he was inducted into Benedict College’s Athletic Hall of Fame (Football 1954-1958). He later earned a Masters of Arts degree in Public Health Administration from Indiana University.

On the profession of his faith, Rayshaw was baptized and became a member of Trinity Baptist Church July 5, 1959 under the pastorate of Reverend Horace P. Sharper.

Rayshaw's journey allowed him to teach and coach at Battery Park High School in Nesmith, South Carolina, winning a conference championship in basketball. He also served as the head basketball coach and athletic director at South Carolina Area Trade School (SCATS) where he helped organize the Eastern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. His other teaching and coaching positions were at Denmark Technical College and in Virginia.

As the varsity basketball coach at Battery Park, Coach Gaddy recognized talent and stole players from the junior varsity coach, Ida Virginia Burroughs to play on the varsity team. While he stole her players, he also stole her heart and they were eventually united in holy matrimony. During this union, they were blessed with a son, Andre’ Donnell Gaddy.

In 1976, Rayshaw was the Assistant Administrator at Faith Health Care Facilities. During this time, he pursued the Democratic nomination for State House of Representatives for Florence County District 62. He was the Assistant Warden at Lee Correctional Institution and retired as Assistant Warden from Palmer Work Release Center.

His community work included having served as a life member of the Florence Branch of the NAACP and Chairperson of the NAACP Freedom Fundraiser Committee, Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World (IBPOEW) Exalted Ruler, Greater Progressive Lodge 1607 and Liberty Temple 800, Voter Registration Selective Service System, Benedict College Alumni Association Life Member, American Legion, South Carolina Education Association, 9 Vets, and Trinity Baptist Church Board of Trustees.

Mr. Gaddy leaves to cherish his memories, his devoted wife of 65 years, Ida V. Gaddy; his dearest son, Andre’ D. Gaddy; his brother-in-law, Clayton Burroughs; his special godchildren, Tim Hawkins, Carla Hawkins, and Marylin Ross Frederick; and loving god granddaughters, Mauria and Shelbi Frederick.

Rayshaw was preceded in death by his mother and his siblings; Fred Gaddy and Mattie Gaddy Charles. He leaves two nieces, Vivian Montgomery and Bertha Carter; one nephew, Nicholas Carter; and countless nieces, nephews, cousins, family members, and extended family. His love for people was a cornerstone of his life and his presence is unforgettable.

Rayshaw's life was marked by his selflessness, intentionality, and unwavering commitment to uplifting those around him. He was a man whose greatness was reflected not only in his achievements, but in the way he lived. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered with fondness and admiration as a man who made the world bette

Family will receive friends daily 11 AM - 7 PM at 1707 North Irby Street, Florence, SC.

Please keep the family of Rayshaw Levan Gaddy in your thoughts and prayers.