Obituary of Gary Dee Rapp Jr.

Gary Dee Rapp, age 53, passed away Friday, November 9, 2018.

He lived a life full of passion, love and quick wit. He was the funniest jokester, the hardest worker, and the most protective father, grandfather, husband, brother and friend. He lit up every room he walked in with a funny joke or snarky comment. He was supportive, kind, and most of all selfless.

His tenacity and drive at work was magnetic, influencing all of his employees to “sell an experience”. He created an environment of passion and had an infectious spirit that made even pest control interesting.

He was a story teller and a teacher, and was never speechless, sometimes to the point of annoying. He became a pastor in 1991 and led several churches, Northport Nazarene, Moundville Nazarene, Florence First Church of the Nazarene, and Gulfport First Church of the Nazarene, that he loved and who loved him. 

More than anything, he loved his family. As a protector on earth, we are certain that he is protecting all of us from heaven. He can be seen through the light in his granddaughter Ava’s eyes.

Gary is preceded in death by his father Gary Sr. and mother in law Ruby Upchurch, as well as many friends and family members that he loved and who loved him.

Gary leaves behind his wife of 29 years, Wanda Rapp, his three children, Kelly Erwin, Kathy Rapp, and Jonathan Rapp, his granddaughter Ava, his son and daughter in law, Chris Erwin and Ashley Wright, his siblings Julie, Jeff, Sandra and Josh, his mother Rosemary and his step mother Susan, and his father in law, Marvin Buddy Upchurch and countless other friends and family.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 pm Thursday, November 15, 2018 at Murfreesboro Funeral Home.

Visitation with the family Wednesday, November 14, 2018 from 4:00-8:00 pm at Murfreesboro Funeral Home.