Levi Rayford

Levi Rayford Sr. (affectionately known as Joe Louis), a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2026. Born on June 7, 1936, in Orrville, Alabama, Levi was the cherished son of the late William and Catherine Rayford. He grew up in a large and loving family leaving behind a legacy of unity and warmth.

Levi's life was a testament to love, dedication, and service. He married the love of his life, Annie Lee Gilmer, on September 2, 1961, in Cleveland, Ohio. Together, they shared 65 beautiful years, raising three wonderful children: Levi Rayford Jr. (Maryann), Sherry Rayford McGriff (Isaiah), and Joanne Rayford Hill (Jay). Levi's family was the center of his world, and he was a proud grandfather to Devan and Demetrius Benton, and an adoring great-grandfather to Hayden and Leiloni Benton.

Levi served his country with honor in the US Army, embodying the values of courage and commitment. After his military service, he embarked on a career as a chef, where his culinary talents graced various country clubs across the Cleveland metropolitan area for over 50 years. Levi's career was marked by excellence and dedication until his retirement in 2006.

Outside of work, Levi found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He was known for his love of the casino and racetrack, where he often enjoyed the thrill of a good wager. His gentle nature was evident in his affection for feeding the squirrels and birds, as well as his grandchildren, whom he cherished deeply. Levi's quick wit and warm smile were his trademarks, always ready with a joke to brighten any room.

Levi was predeceased by Laura Rayford Biggs (David Sr.), Julia Mae Rayford Vasser, Ardell Rayford Holmes (Charles Sr.), Elijah Rayford (Astie Lee), Dazarine "Portia" Rayford Lowe (James Sr.), Herman Rayford, Henry Rayford, Catherine Rayford Mitchell, Glorious Diane "Ann" Bell, Bernest "Bump" Rayford, Emmanuel "Ricky" Rayford.

Levi leaves behind his devoted wife, Annie; his children, Levi Jr., Sherry, and Joanne; his grandchildren, Devan and Demetrius; great-grandchildren, Hayden and Leiloni; and his siblings Minnie Mae Rayford Blackmon, Rachel Lee Rayford Mitchell, Willie James Rayford, Mary "Lois" Rayford Hatcher, Brenda Faye Rayford, Geraldine Rayford Barron, Ronald "Billy" Rayford, and Gregory Rayford. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law Walter Vasser and John Bell, sister-in-law Eula Rayford, along with family and friends who will miss him dearly.

In the words of his family, "In our hearts, you will always stay, loved and remembered every day. Your legacy lives on in the love and values you instilled in us." Levi Rayford Sr. will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever remain a guiding light in the lives of those who knew and loved him.

Friends and family are welcome to St. John Funeral Home, 923 Broadway Ave, Bedford, OH 44146 on Monday, October 19 from 5 P.M. – 7P.M. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 20 at New Beginnings AME Church, 5620 Lafayette Ave, Maple Heights, OH 44137 from 10:00 A.M. - 10:30 A.M. with a funeral service at 10:30 A.M.