John Raiford Power

May 11, 1940 - August 27, 2020

Our brother Raiford (also known as Ray or John to his friends), born May 11, 1940, shed the bonds of cancer on August 27, 2020 and reunited with our parents, Henry Johnson and Margaret Parker Power. Raiford was kind-hearted, charming, an animal-lover and a devoted Gamecock fan. He graduated from Hollywood High School in Saluda, South Carolina and received his degree from USC-Columbia in 1962. He worked as a newspaper journalist in North Carolina after college, later pursuing careers in grocery store management (Kroger) and with General Mills (Martha White division). He made Winston-Salem his home for much of his adult life. Raiford is survived by his siblings Henry Power, Jr. (Brenda), Fay Power Hancock (Chalmers), William Power (Cheryl), and Cornelia Ruth Power Edwards (Terry), a number of nephews and nieces, and his former wife, Dr. Drenda Lalor. Ray was a believer and of the Presbyterian faith. He was always interested in the other person and he was always thankful for the kindness shown to him. He tried as best he could to return those kind deeds or pay them forward. John Raiford Power fought a hard fight to stay here through two major cancer diagnoses, surviving well past his initial prognosis. A special thanks to Terry (brother-in-law) and Robert (nephew) whose brave hearts and strong backs sustained him in those last difficult weeks, and to his neighbor and friend, Barbara Elliot, whose pep and perseverance propelled him forward when the journey was difficult. Graveside services will be held Saturday, August 29, 2020 at 2:00 PM at West Travis Park Cemetery, Saluda, SC. Due to COVID-19, the family asks those attending to practice social distancing and to wear masks. Memorials may be made to Saluda Presbyterian Church, 103 W. Highland Ave., Saluda, SC 29138, or to an Animal Rescue of your choice.