Our Unique Stories

claude rayford

1925-2006

Life Story

Birth and Parentage

Claude Rayford was born on May 6, 1925, to Demp Rayford (1896–?) and Betty Rayford (1913–?). He grew up in the town of Drew, Sunflower County, Mississippi, a Delta community shaped by agriculture and farm labor.

Early Life and Occupation

Claude spent his early adult years working as a farm helper, a common occupation in the Mississippi Delta during the mid-20th century. His work reflected the agricultural economy that defined life in both Sunflower and Newton Counties.

Marriage and Family

Claude Rayford married Susie Mae Gray (1913–1999), daughter of Grover C. Gray of Newton. Their marriage was publicly announced in a local newspaper and took place on Sunday, January 30, in the home of Frank and Clozell Brown, with Rev. D. A. Donald officiating.

Through this marriage, Claude became the step-father of George C. Page (1935–1981), whom he helped raise and who later maintained strong ties to Saint John Missionary Baptist Church.

Later Life

Following his marriage, Claude Rayford resided in the Newton County area, where his family and church connections became firmly established. His life bridged Delta and East-Central Mississippi communities through work, marriage, and kinship ties.

Death and Burial

Claude Rayford passed away on February 17, 2006. He is laid to rest at Saint John M.B. Church Graveyard, alongside members of the Page, Gray, and Rayford families connected to Saint John Missionary Baptist Church.

Resting Place

Saint John Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard

Photos/Albums

Claude Rayford
Claude Rayford, 1925-2006

Sources

  • 1940 Federal Census
  • 1950 Federal Census
  • The Clarksdale Press Register, Clyde Rayford Obituary, Thu, Sep 22, 1988 ·Page 2
  • U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
  • The Newton Record, Susie G. Rayford Obituary, Wed, Jun 09, 1999 ·Page 13
  • The Newton Record, George C. Page Obituary, Wed, Jun 24, 1981 ·Page 6
  • The Newton Record, Rayford-Gray Wed, Thu, Feb 03, 1955 ·Page 8
  • U.S., Social Security Death Index, 1935-2014
  • U.S. WWII Draft Cards Young Men, 1940-1947

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