Raymond I. Draper

Raymond I. Draper, 73, of Malvern, passed away on September 19, 2014. Raymond was born in Malvern to Clifford and Ruby Jean Draper on October 31, 1940. Raymond retired from Acme Brick after 36 years of service. Raymond was a hard worker who was totally dedicated to his family. He was such a hard worker that in those 36 years, he only called in sick a handful of times. When he retired, Raymond had banked enough unused leave to continue to draw a paycheck for another 10 months. Raymond loved to be outside, especially at the lake. He loved to fish, go camping and really enjoyed good fellowship with his family. He was a member of the Clearwater Hunt Club and of the Baptist faith. Raymond also loved the hummingbirds in his yard, so much so that he named each one.
Raymond is survived by his wife of 19 years, Betty Sue (Ward) Draper; two sons, Robert (Melanie) Draper and Tony (Tia) Draper; his daughter, Teena Draper; two step-daughters, Tammy Williams and Lisa (Buddy) Greeno; one brother, who was also his best friend, Clifford “Runt”(Joyce) Draper; and his sister, Elizabeth (Jim) Gordon. Raymond is also survived by his grandchildren, Bobby Ray Draper, Kevin (Bethanny) Draper, Sydney Draper, B.J. Draper, and Brandon Draper; his four step-grandchildren, Jessica Rice, Charles Greeno, Winston Greeno and Derick Williams; three great-grandchildren with one on the way; six step great-grandchildren; two nieces, Angela (Wayne) Jones and Stacy Gordon (Mike Clayton); and one nephew, Gary (DeeDee) Draper.
Raymond is preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Doyle Draper.
A memorial service will be held in his honor at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 24, 2014 at the river park pavilion in Malvern. Officiating will be Bro. Kevin Hunt. All family and friends are welcome to attend.
Arrangements entrusted to Atkinson Funeral Home in Malvern.