Thomas Rayfield

Thomas Eugene " Gene" Rayfield

On January 2, 2024, in his home surrounded by loved ones, heaven gained a precious angel. Thomas Eugene Rayfield, 79, of Moody, Alabama, also known as Gene Rayfield, was born on November 23, 1944, in Birmingham, Alabama. He was a loving and devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, known affectionately as "Pop." Gene's gentle spirit, humble nature, and kind heart touched the lives of many. We will miss him terribly but know in our hearts we will see him again.

Gene had a deep faith in his Lord and Savior and was an active member of the New Life Methodist Church of Pell City, Alabama. He taught Sunday School for over 40 years and was actively involved in the Alabama Emmaus Community. Gene found joy in singing in his church choir and was a member of the "SPEBSQSA" Barbershop Harmony Society where they competed in many singing competitions through the years. He absolutely loved Auburn Football and was an Auburn Tiger through and through.

After graduating from Sylacauga High School, Gene pursued higher education at Auburn University. He later embarked on a career in education, teaching at Baker High School in Columbus, Georgia. Gene then went on to work at PEMCO Aeroplex and UAB, where he dedicated ten years of service before retiring.

Gene leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He is survived by his beloved spouse of 60 years, Carol Faye Adams Rayfield, his son Joseph Keith Rayfield (Karen Rayfield), his daughter Laura Anne Betsill (Jeffrey Len Betsill), his grandsons Christopher Keith Rayfield and Adam Thomas Rayfield, his granddaughters Nicole Kapanowski and Jessica Messina (Ryan Messina) and great-granddaughters Aniya Kapanowski and Aria Messina. Gene was preceded in death by his father, Kermit Virgil Rayfield, his mother, Edith McRaven Rayfield and his brothers Jerry William Rayfield and Donald Edward Rayfield.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Gene's memory will be held on January 27, 2024, at 1pm at the Municipal Building in Pell City, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the New Life Methodist Church of Pell City, Alabama located at 1000 Bruce Etheridge Pkwy, Pell City, Alabama 35128 and Lakeside Hospice located at 4010 Masters Road, Pell City, Alabama 35128.

The family wishes a special thank you to Ms. Ann Etheridge and the amazing team at Lakeside Hospice for their dedication and compassionate care provided for Gene and Carol during this difficult time.

The Jefferson Memorial Funeral Home and Gardens in Birmingham, Alabama, is assisting the family with the arrangements.