Carolyn Rae Watson Rayfield, 72, of Columbia passed away at home surrounded by her family on August 9, 2016. Born on March 18, 1944 in Columbia, SC she was a daughter of the late James Evans and Carolyn Jimelle McCabe Watson. Rae was married to Edward "Buddy" Rayfield of Baxley, GA and raised their family in Columbia, SC.

Mrs. Rayfield was a graduate of Eau Claire High School in 1962 and the University of South Carolina in 1966, and retired from Richland County School District 1. She loved music and reading and was the church organist and librarian of New Heights Church, formerly Colonial Heights Baptist Church, where she was a member. She will be remembered by all as a loving and devoted wife and mother, teacher, church organist and school and church librarian.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years; a son, James Edward "Jimmie" Rayfield; and daughter, Carolyn Marie "Carol" Rayfield. Also surviving is her sister, Sally Watson Preacher, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles.

The service for Mrs. Rayfield will be held at 11 o'clock, Saturday, August 13th at New Heights Church with the Rev. Michael C. Townsend and Rev. David Wagner officiating. Burial will follow in Crescent Hill Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends prior to the service at the church beginning at 10 o'clock. Shives Funeral Home, Colonial Chapel, is assisting the family.

A special thank you goes to Dr. Frampton Henderson, Dr. David Perry, Troy Blanks, Amedysis Home Health Care and Hospice staff who cared for her during her illness. Memorials may be sent to New Heights Church, 5501 Broad River Rd, Columbia SC 29212.