Carol Jean Rapley

Carol Jean Rapley

 For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.

 For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's.  (Romans 14: 7-8)

The earth was graced with Carol’s presence when she was born to parents Shirley Whyte and Joshua Rapley on January 5th, 1964. Carol was born in Kingston Jamaica and was the 4th child of eight children. Carol spent her formative years in her homeland but at the age of twelve she migrated to the United States along with her siblings to reside with her mother. They became residents of Morristown, New Jersey where they lived for many years.

Carol attended the Frelinghuysen Middle School and later Morristown High School from which she graduated with her high school diploma. She also attended the Morris County Vocational School. Carol’s educational achievement includes Certification in Child Development Associate, Every Person Influence Children and Food Safety. 

From a tender age, Carol’s characteristics was exhibited as a compassionate, loving, loyal and outgoing person. Every person who knew Carol experience her big heart and giving nature and so it was no surprise that her jobs always include being of service to others. Her many places of employment included the United States Postal Service, The Salvation Army, Spring Hills Assisted Living and Greystone Psychiatric Hospital. Carol worked selflessly to help others and poured her heart and soul in all her work. She was deeply admired and loved by her coworkers. Carol touch everybody’s life she encountered with and always made it a point to make them feel special and important.

Carol grew up surrounded by a very large family. She loved her family very much and was the one who often advocated and defended them if there was conflict. Her brother Kingley, who she loved and protected very much was often a recipient of that advocacy and defense. Caring and kindness permeated Carol’s nature and it was often manifested in helping not only her family but others who were experiencing misfortune. Whether it was a homeless child or someone who needs some sort of assistance, her home was open and available. 

Carol was a multifaceted individual and one of her passions was cooking. She was an outstanding cook and some of her culinary skills included her famous escovitch fish, fried whiting, and curry chicken. One could never be hungry when you were in the presence of Carol, and she was often sought out to cater events. Carol was also comical, and no one could ever be around her with a sad face for an extended amount of time. She always finds some jokes to make you smile or laugh. Her quality was rare, and she had a pure heart which could be clearly seen.

One of the most important aspects of Carol’s life is that she was saved. In May 1998, Carol accepted the call of God on her life. She was baptized at the Mount Zion Baptist Church where she became a faithful member. She was a member of the Sunday School department and made sure she attended prayer meetings and bible study.  She also fellowshipped at Trueway Outreach Ministry.  She was vigilant and passionate about her Christianity and made sure that she incorporates Christ in the lives of her daughters also. One of her favorite bible quotes was Proverbs: 3 verses 5-6, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; And lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Carol was a devoted mother to her two daughters. She was their rock and an invaluable asset to them. After a brief illness, the Lord call Carol home.

Carol Jean Rapley a loving mother of two beautiful daughters transitioned to her heavenly father on Wednesday October 12, 2022, with them being by her side.

Carol is predeceased by her father; Josiah Rapley and sister Georgette Rapley. Survived to enjoy her beautiful memories, her two daughters Lakeya and Shenia, Her mother, Shirley, Her Siblings: Maisie (Delbert), Sonia (Paul), Sharon (Ralston), Lanna; Kingsley (Marcia), Orlando, Albert, and Ryan, Her aunts: Monica, Joycelyn (Calbern), Vivia (Simone), Yvonne (Horace); nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

God looked around his garden and he saw an empty space. Then he looked down upon earth and saw your weary face. He put his arms around you and lifted you to rest. God’s garden must be beautiful because he only takes the best.

Sleep in peace Carol Jean Rapley, mom, daughter, niece, cousin friend

Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

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