Adelia "Possie" Raiford

Adelia Cochran Raiford, lovingly known as “Possie,” 81, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025, in Asheville, North Carolina, surrounded by her family who adored her. Born on April 20, 1944, in Atlanta, GA, to the late Rev. Charles Barrett and Margaret Thompson Cochran, she graduated from Decatur High School, Asbury University, and Georgia State University. Though she cherished her Georgia roots, Possie joyfully followed her grandchildren from Atlanta to Mount Pleasant, SC, and most recently to Asheville, NC. She was a longtime member of St. John’s United Methodist Church in Atlanta and St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Mount Pleasant. A woman of grace, deep faith, and extraordinary generosity, Possie lived her life as a reflection of God’s love. She had a remarkable gift for teaching, whether educating people on drug and alcohol prevention, mentoring women in their walk with Christ, or quietly modeling perseverance amid suffering. Her career with the Prevention Research Institute in Lexington, KY, allowed her to pursue the writing, research, and teaching she treasured. She helped establish a recovery ministry at her church in Atlanta and later served with Drawing Near to God Ministry in Charleston, where her wisdom shaped many lives. Possie also knew how to bring joy. She loved to host, loved a good party, and filled every home with warmth and laughter. She made people feel seen and celebrated, whether she was setting a beautiful table, sharing a story, or offering guidance in the kitchen. She treasured many things, but nothing more than her family. Her greatest honor was being a mother and grandmother. She poured immeasurable love into her grandchildren, Mary Miles, Claire, and Rai Faulkenberry of Asheville, NC, and Richie and Maxwell Raiford of Nashville, TN. She was fully present for their milestones and all the everyday moments. Possie is survived by her son, Richard Weldon Raiford Jr. (Kristin) of Nashville, TN; daughter, Windsor Faulkenberry (Scott) of Fairview, NC; sister, Yvonne Cochran Moulton (Alan) of Wilmore, KY; sister-in-law, Pat Raiford Thomas (Butch) of Pawley’s Island, SC; and niece, Holly Raiford (Dave) of Marietta, GA. She was predeceased this year by her loving husband of 55 years, Richard Weldon Raiford Sr., and by siblings Ramona Turman, Juanita Russell, and Emerson Cochran. She leaves behind many beloved Cochran nieces and nephews, each with a cherished Aunt Possie story. As we celebrate her life, we rest in the peace of knowing that Possie is now free from the limitations of Multiple Sclerosis as she steps into the eternal life she faithfully prepared for. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on January 17 at 2:00 PM with visitation immediately following at Central United Methodist Church in Asheville, NC. In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial donations to be made to Drawing Near to God Ministry, PO Box 1274, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29465

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Adelia "Possie" Raiford

April 20, 1944 - November 21, 2025