Thomas "Tom" J. Rapier

Thomas “Tom” J. Rapier Jr, 53, of Canal Winchester passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family on December 22, 2022. Tom was born on October 18, 1969 in Akron, Ohio. He graduated from Spring Valley High School in Columbia, SC, class of 1988. He was preceded in death by his Grandma Faye, best buddy Dave Ritter, many other extended family members and some fur babies.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Stephanie Rapier; children Amber (Tom Konitzer) Rapier, Megan Rapier, and Colby Rapier; parents Thomas and Cassandra Rapier Sr; mother-in-law Mary R. Leach; two siblings; two grandchildren; many nieces and nephews and extended family and friends.

Known to many as “Soldier Tom,” he was incredibly hard working and tough, but also extremely goofy and was always making others laugh when he entered a room. Tom had an immense passion for college football and was a devoted fan of the South Carolina Gamecocks, traveling for many years to every home game to support his team. His love and knowledge for the game took him to mentor and coach for most of his life, guiding others through their football and baseball careers. He had a huge love for 80s/90s music and film; and would always have something playing on the tv. His work ethic was second to none. He was the owner of Therma Tech Heating and Cooling, LLC., working hard his entire life to be a provider. He loved to cook for his family, especially on his blackstone grill. He had a big heart for rescuing stray cats who needed homes while being supportive of the TNR program.

Tom felt so much love surrounded by his family and his fur babies and considered his children to be the best chapters of his life. They and his wife were what kept him fighting for as long as he did. He was truly and inspirationally one of a kind. He will be greatly missed by many.

His family will receive friends on Saturday, January 21, 2023 from 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM at Cotner Funeral home in Reynoldsburg, with his memorial service to begin at 4:00 p.m.  Dress code is casual and comfortable, in honor of Tom please wear a gamecock color of your choice: garnet, black, and white.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a local cat rescue of your choice in Tom’s name.

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