Jim graciously passed through the valley of the shadow of death on January 20, 2017 and is now “absent from the body and face to face with the Lord”.
II Corinthians 5:8. In a place of “no more tears, no more pain, the old things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4. This precious husband, father and grandfather is a testimony to grace and a trophy of grace: SAVING GRACE; LIVING GRACE; and DYING GRACE. Saving grace: “For by grace are you saved through faith / faith alone in Christ and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9. Living grace: “Grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3:18. Dying grace: “For me, living is Christ, dying profit.” Philippians 1:21.
Jim was born in Little Rock, Arkansas on the 17th of June 1955. He was a Project Superintendent for Built Wright Construction in Waco. He was an awesome and wonderful and giving husband, father and grandfather “Poppy”.
Jim was preceded in death by his father, Robert A. Raper and mother, Melba Dean Hillman; two brothers, Ricky Raper and Darren Hillman; and one sister, Sharren Caliverse.
Jim is survived by his wife, Janice Raper of Waco; brothers, Ronnie Raper and wife, Janie of Lonoke, Arkansas, Bobby Raper of Jacksonville, Arkansas and Michael Raper of Hot Springs, Arkansas; his children, Nikki Evaniuck and husband, Craig of Santa Clarita, California, Chris Raper and wife, Ronda of Searcy, Arkansas and Kyle Raper of Jacksonville, Arkansas; and eight grandchildren.
Burial: At a later date in Arkansas
Lake Shore Funeral Home & Cremation Services
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Janice and all of Jimmy’s family and friends. Janice and Jimmy have been in my prayers for several months now. Last week those prayers extended to your families and I know by my faith that God kept you all close to him and was with you all as Jimmy left this earth and passed through the gates of heaven. I will continue to lift you in prayer to ask for comfort as you cope with losing one that meant so much to you. May you find comfort in the memories of the love you shared and knowing that one day you will be together again.
Janice, So sorry for your loss. May God’s arms cradle and comfort you and the family in this time of sorrow. He will give you comfort and strength for the days ahead as you remember and love your Jimmy.
May the love of those around you provide comfort and peace to get you through the days ahead. We offer our most sincere condolences for your loss.
In Deepest Sympathy,
The Providence Hospice Team
My most precious and graceful GOD, Please by your grace and mercy grant this family comfort and healing as the days to follow.
“I SALUTE” Jimmy as he was the most caring and loving man I have ever met. The love he showed for his family was so genuine, especially for his loving wife – my friend Janice.
Rest In Heaven Jimmy until we meet again – someday, soon.