Rayfield Simpson, the youngest of four children was born to the late Pearl and Louise Brook-Simpson on September 10, 1929, in Doncaster, Maryland. He departed this life peacefully on Wednesday, June 3, 2009, at his residence located in Indian Head, Maryland.

Rayfield resided in Charles County, Maryland his entire life and received his education in the Charles County Public School System. At an early age, Rayfield was baptized and attended Mount Hope Baptist Church, located in Nanjemoy, Maryland under the leadership of Reverend C.R. Alexander.

In May 1951, Rayfield enlisted in the U.S. Army at Fort George E. Meade, Maryland. Rayfield served in the Korean War (Battle of Pork Chop Hill). He was honorably discharged in February 1953 at the rank of Corporal. After returning from the war, Rayfield worked as an explosive tester at the Naval Ordinance Station (formerly known as Naval Warfare Surface Center) located in Indian Head, Maryland. He retired after thirty-five years of dedicated government service.

In September 1953, Rayfield married Constance Hart and from this union they raised and cared for their eight children.

Rayfield will be remembered for all the enjoyable moments he spent with his love ones, especially his children. On the weekends, he would drive his family to Twin Kiss, Marshall Amusement Park or the Moonlight Inn for fun times. Even though he was a hard and dedicated worker, Rayfield made time to attend and participate in activities with his family.

Rayfield was well known as a kind and generous individual who enjoyed life. He was a devoted father and grandfather to his children, grandchildren and great-grand children. All who knew him knew his love was unconditional. He loved to cook at family gatherings and cookouts. He also enjoyed bowling, gardening, watching football (Redskins) and spending time with his special friends. He loved to sit under the tree talking, joking and laughing with his brother, Steffin. Rayfield will be greatly missed by everyone.

Left to cherish his memories are three sons, Samuel Simpson, Larry Simpson and Kevin Simpson (Renee); four daughters, Faye Fuller (Jerry), Yvonne Gaines, Terry Johnson (Al) and Constance Dixon; brother, Steffin Simpson (Florine); sister, Howardine Jackson; nephews, Mickey and Howard Simpson; nieces, Rachel Swann and Jeanette Simpson; special devoted friends, Verstella Yates, John and Constance Kingsberry, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Wimbush, Charles Dotson and Catherine Thompson and a host of grandchildren, great-grand children, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son Rayfield Simpson Jr., two brothers; Alfonso and Arthur Mandue and sister, Mary Simpson.

His viewing will be held on Wednesday, June 10, 2009, 9:00am until service time 11:00am at the Thornton Funeral Home, P.A. Chapel, 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, MD 20640. Interment Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, MD.

Arrangements provided by Thornton Funeral Home.