Raymond J. Rappleye

Raymond J. Rappleye, 84, of Sweetwater, TN, passed away on March 22, 2026, surrounded by family and friends.

He was born on January 8, 1942, in Camden, New Jersey, and carried with him throughout his life the resilience, humor, and quiet strength shaped by his early years.

Raymond built a life grounded in love, hard work, and devotion to the people he cared for. He spent more than 50 years as a professional driver and owner/operator, finding purpose and pride in the trucking and transportation industry. He had a genuine love for the road, the work, and the community that came with it. Outside of his career, he enjoyed NASCAR racing and the camaraderie and excitement it brought him.

He is survived by his sister, Janice DiDominco of New Jersey; his daughter, Angela Powers, and her husband, Phillip, of Sweetwater, Tennessee; and four grandchildren: Frank Moore & Melissa of Coatesville, Pennsylvania; Justin Williams & Chelsey of Crestview, Florida; Anthony Steven Moore & Madison of Florence, South Carolina; and Leon Kleckner III of Coatesville, Pennsylvania. He was blessed with ten great‑grandchildren, each of whom brought him joy. He is preceded in death by his wife, Frankie Rappleye.

A celebration of his life will be held on April 11, 2026, from 2:00-4:00 PM, at his family home in Sweetwater, Tennessee. Friends and family are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the legacy he leaves behind. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, reflecting Raymond's lifelong values.

Raymond's presence, his steady guidance, and the warmth he brought into the world will be deeply missed.