Lowering of the County Flag: Byrd J. Raby

This is to advise that Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins, II, Esq. ordered the Charles County flag to be lowered to half-staff effective immediately and returned to full staff at sunset on Saturday, October 24, 2026, to honor Charter Member and Past Chief Byrd J. Raby of the Potomac Heights Volunteer Fire Department.

Byrd Jess Raby, age 90, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at his Southaven Farm home in Normandy, Tennessee.

Born on January 29, 1936, in Indian Head, Maryland, Byrd was the eighth child of Ada Mae (Welch) Raby and Jesse James Raby.

A 1954 graduate of Lackey High School, Byrd remained deeply connected to his alma mater throughout his life. He served on reunion committees-including the 50th reunion in 2004-and in 1983 chaired the Lackey Memorial Committee, preserving the memory of Charles County's first four-year high school. The school's cupola and memorial plaque still stand at Indian Head Elementary School, a testament to his dedication.

Friends will be received at the Potomac Heights Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad on Friday, October 23, 2026 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM with Firemen's Prayers at 7 PM. A Masonic Lodge service will also be held that evening.

The family will also receive friends at the Potomac Heights Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at 9 AM until time of funeral services at 10 AM. Interment Mount Rest Cemetery, La Plata, Maryland.