Rayford Leon Welch, 80

Funeral services for Rayford Leon Welch, 80, of Ava, were held Jan. 8, 2024, in the Clinkingbeard Chapel in Ava. Burial was at the Hicks Cemetery in Theodosia with full military honors by the Troy Herd American Legion #112 and U.S. Army detail. 

He died Jan. 5, at Gainesville Healthcare Center. Rayford was born July 8, 1943, in Ozark County to J.E. and Eulah (Sallee)  Welch. He was raised mostly in the Longrun community.

Rayford was a veteran and served with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam war. He was trained as a sharp shooter, and then he was a trainer. On May 27, 1963, Rayford and Linda Parsons were married in Harrisonville. Rayford was retired from working in maintenance at Emerson Electric in Ava. He worked there for several years. He was a Christian and raised in the Baptist faith. He enjoyed hunting, and he loved visiting with people. His joy was being with Linda, and they enjoyed their time in the Ozarks. 

He is survived by his family, Freeda and Boyd Garrison and Darrin Clayton; nieces; nephews; other extended family and many friends.

Rayford was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Linda; and his brother, Larry Welch.

Memorials may be made to the Hicks Cemetery.  Online condolences may be made to www.clinkingbeardfuneralhome.com.