In Loving Memory

With heavy hearts and profound love, we announce the passing of Rayford Thomas Cheek. A beloved 86-year-old man, whose life was defined by hard work, unwavering loyalty, strength, and an immeasurable love for his family.

Memorial services will be held 12:00PM, Saturday October 31, 2026 in the chapel of McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory. The family will receive friends for a public visitation one hour prior to services at the funeral home, 3874 Gentian Blvd., Columbus, GA 31907.

Born April 30, 1940 in Columbus, GA, Rayford was strong and resilient, he was loyal to those he loved which wasn't always spoken in fancy words, but it was shown in a thousand everyday ways—in his hard work, his helping hands, his dependability, and his constant presence.

He was a man you could always count on to help anyone with anything, whether it was family, friends or neighbors. A dependable soul who believed in showing up, keeping his word, and doing whatever needed to be done. He worked hard throughout his life, never shying away from a challenge, and had a special gift for fixing just about anything. If something was broken, he would find a way to make it work again. That was simply who he was: a problem-solver, a provider, and a man who took pride in taking care of the people he loved.

Some of the sweetest memories were made in the simple joys of life. Whether he was riding his John Deere, enjoying a day at The Cabin pulling the kids behind the boat, rope swings and high dives. Those memories will forever hold a special place in the hearts of his family.

And, of course, there was NASCAR and Judge Judy. He loved the excitement of the race and TV courtroom drama, the roar of the engines, and the thrill of watching his favorite drivers compete every Sunday.

At 86 years old, he leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured in years alone and though his hands may no longer be busy fixing things, his legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the values and knowledge he passed down, and the family that will continue to honor him in all the little ways that remind them of who he was.

He was one of a kind, and there will never be another quite like him. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. May he rest peacefully, knowing that the life he lived mattered, the love he gave will endure, and the memories he made will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Rayford is survived by his Wife Marty Cheek; daughter, Julie Raines (Rusty); Grandson Logan Raines; son, Michael Cheek (Karen) and sister Mary Ann Cheek.

Until we meet again, may the races be exciting, the John Deere keep running, and the waters always be calm…”Catch you on the flip side"