Ernest George Rafey

Ernest Rafey, MD, was a first responder at the Pentagon during 9/11, near the end of an admirable career as a physician that spanned over 50 years. Born in Hopewell, VA, he attended Hopewell HS, and served our country in World War II as a medic in the Air Force and Infantry in both Europe and Japan. He was awarded the Bronze Star for throwing himself over a wounded soldier during enemy shelling in Germany. He returned to complete his B.A. and M.D. at the University of Virginia. After starting his medical career in Ohio, he married Roslyn Broida (1922-2010), a marriage they both cherished that lasted almost 50 years. Moving to Falls Church in 1963, he started a family practice, which he expanded in 1972 into Medic-24, Ltd. (later First Medic), the nation’s first round-the-clock non-emergency clinic, with offices in Bailey’s Crossroads and McLean, which he later sold to Fairfax Hospital. He loved and was beloved by his patients, and he continued practicing medicine from 1992 through 2010 as a Civilian Physician at Rader Clinic at Ft. Myer. He was a community leader, serving as President of the Lake Barcroft Association during Hurricane Agnes in 1972. He was appreciated for his generosity and caring spirit, always taking time with his patients to put them on the right course. He and Roslyn traveled the world, enjoyed fine dining, and loved introducing friends to favorite restaurants. He was an avid collector of wines, coins, and antiques. He treasured his extended family and his Lebanese heritage. Ernest is survived by four children - Gail Sher (Brendan), Larry Rafey, Beverly Appel, and Richter Rafey (Laura) – two grandchildren – William and Kelly – and his half-brother, Eddie. His service is being scheduled at Arlington National Cemetery