November 22, 1931 – June 21, 2024

We are saddened to share the news that beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Dr. Gilbert Lancelot Raiford, Jr. passed away peacefully on June 21, 2024. Dr. Raiford was born on November 22, 1931, in Zuber, Florida. An intellectual by nature and a lifelong learner, Dr. Raiford started his educational journey at Fessenden Academy and Hampton University, followed by NYU and the University of Chicago where he earned Master’s degrees in Educational Sociology and Social Work, culminating in a PhD in Social Work from Brandeis University. His teaching career spanned decades, including work and outreach abroad, with his last tenure with the Ellen Whiteside McDonnell School of Social Work at Barry University in Miami Shores, FL, where he taught courses in social work, psychology, sociology, history, political science, social research, and social welfare policy.

During his decades as a professor, he also made many contributions to the field of public diplomacy. His work in this area began in the early 1970s with Operation Crossroads Africa, a citizen-to-citizen exchange program, recognized by President John F. Kennedy, as the "progenitor of the Peace Corps." His involvement in public diplomacy continued with a career spanning more than 30 years, as a liaison with the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, International Visitor Leadership Program, a high-profile, public diplomacy program. More than 200 current and former heads of state, 1,500 cabinet-level ministers, and many other distinguished leaders in the public and private sectors have participated in the IVLP since its inception – a surprising number of whom knew and traveled with Dr. Raiford. Dr. Raiford also taught on military bases in Asia and Europe and was invited to study social welfare policies in the United Kingdom as a guest of Queen Elizabeth II. He was a world traveler, having visited every continent, except Antarctica. His last backpacking adventure was a solo trip through Australia the year he turned 80.

During all of those years, he taught by example, believing in the potential and humanity of every human being – mentoring young students, guiding the homeless and incarcerated to better lives, and acting as a caring father figure to many family members and friends. His life was marked by extensive travel, prestigious awards and appointments, and a body of written work that includes scholarly articles and his memoirs. However, he will be most remembered for his generosity, ready humor, prowess at pinochle, and love of music. After living in New York City, Lawrence, Kansas, and Chicago, and four decades in Miami, Florida, Gil and Mildred made their final home in Washington DC, with his darling Mildred’s passing occurring in 2022.

Dr. Raiford is survived by his children and their spouses, Janice Raiford Alder (and Matthias Alder), Wanda Raiford, Gilbert Raiford III (and Ivonne Raiford), and Douglas Raiford; his grandchildren, Marcus, Leonie, Arianna, Elijah, and Ezekiel; and his many relatives including his sister Adele and his nieces, nephews, and cousins with whom he was in constant and loving contact. Condolences may be sent to: The Raiford Family, 4201 Butterworth Place, NW, Apt 339, Washington DC 20016. A private burial will be held in North Carolina where he will be interred next to his wife Mildred. A memorial service is planned for early spring of 2025 in Miami. Details will be shared as soon as the family has a plan in place. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity. The family is very grateful for the outpouring of support and concern.