The family of homeless veteran Edward Rayfield has been found. Through the efforts of researchers, veterans groups, law enforcement and two local newspapers Rayfield's brother, son and ex wife have been contacted. A memorial service is planned for this Monday at Knight Auchmoody Funeral Home in Port Jervis. His final resting place will be at The Northern New Jersey Veterans Cemetery in Sparta. Family members told the Times Herald Record they had not heard from him in decades. His 29 year old son Jamie said "I used to look for my dad even throughout my high school years. I found his mother ... but she didn't know where he was either." Jamie Rayfield went on to say he believes his father did not contact family members because he didn't want to be a burden: "He chose to keep to himself not to worry us all." Jamie Rayfield hasn't seen his dad since he was 7. At least now we do know Rayfield does have a family. They tried to find him and they did care. He is the father of 4 sons and one daughter. Since he had so many children he must have been able to provide and was involved with his family for years. We don't know when or why his life fell apart. We send our love, prayers and condolences to the Rayfield Family. Memorial contributions can be made to The Wounded Warrior Project in Topeka, Kansas.
Source: Times Herald Record