Ray Brownfield Recognized for 60 Years of ASFMRA Membership

Peoples Company is proud to share that Ray L. Brownfield, Designated Managing Broker at Peoples Company, was recently recognized by the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers for 60 years of membership within the organization. Ray was honored for this milestone in March 2026, reflecting a career defined by service, leadership, and a deep commitment to the agricultural industry.

Ray brings more than 50 years of professional agricultural property experience to the clients he serves in Illinois and beyond. He holds both the Accredited Land Consultant designation and the Accredited Farm Manager designation, and he manages more than 2,100 acres of land in Illinois for absentee landowners. Throughout his career, Ray has held leadership roles with First National Bank of Peoria, Continental Illinois National Bank & Trust Company, Northern Trust Bank, and Capital Agricultural Property Services, Inc.

His career has also been marked by significant leadership within the industry. Ray served as president of the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers and later as president of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers in 2007. He also served as president of the REALTORS Land Institute in 2012 and continues to contribute his expertise through industry leadership and advocacy.

In addition to his professional work, Ray has been recognized for his contributions to agriculture and education. He received the Holbert Award from Illinois State University, was inducted into the university’s College of Applied Science and Technology Hall of Fame, and later earned its Alumni Achievement Award. His long record of service also includes 35 years in the Illinois Army National Guard, where he retired as a Chief Warrant Officer, CW5.

About the Recognition
The recognition from ASFMRA honors Ray’s 60 years of membership in one of the most respected professional organizations serving farm managers, rural appraisers, and agricultural consultants. It reflects not only the length of his career, but the professionalism, ethics, and leadership he has demonstrated across decades of service to clients and the agricultural community. The organization noted that ASFMRA has long supported professional development, education, and high standards of conduct within the industry.