Joseph Paul Rapisarda

How lucky can one girl be? I am that
lucky girl who called Joe Rap my father-in-law. He was truly one of a kind. The ultimate family guy. A fun loving, story telling, big hearted gentlemen in every way. We will miss him ALWAYS. We love you, sweetie!!!

I am one lucky girl for
being able to call Joe Rap my father-in-law.
He was a fun loving, story telling, kind hearted true gentlemen in every sense of the word.
He was the heart and sole of our family, and we will miss his presence ALWAYS....
We love you, sweetie!!!

My heart shares this grief and the loss is palpable, especially for his children and that does include Bob Windsor , and Nancy Alspaugh-Jackson , as they both were just as if two of Joe's own. Gina , we spoke last a few weeks ago and I was so saddened to see he had to go, I do know that it was just a perfect time, he lived a grand, yet humble and rich life, touching many, many others as he went along. My family lived just one street over, as you know, and you know my Daddy adored Joe. I think the feeling was mutual, as I spoke to him about my Daddy a few times , when I saw him at the hospital for his brief stays along the few years he needed a little tune up. I know that you all feel a tremendous loss right now, yet at the same time, rejoice in his calling to rejoin his wife and his parents and others that have gone ahead. I know how much he was loved, a treasure , and a gentleman, My sympathy to Gina, Joe and all of your lovely family Rest well Joe Rap! We will all be together one day!

While attending TJ, Joe, Doris Fones and I took after-school strolls in Maymont Park. We walked down by the river, sat on the rocks high above and had snacks. One time we even waded in a small creek! I still have photographs. Joe was a good friend and a fun person. A sweet, innocent time!
Ruth Doumlele

Sorry for your loss Gina but God knows best . Love to you all

It was my privilege to know Joe Rap Sr. and to experience his ability to simultaneously win your respect and affection. While his physical presence will be missed, his fine character lives on in his family and in the many lives he positively influenced. Peace be with you all.

Joe will be missed in our neighborhood. Great neighbor!

I first met Joseph Rapisarda in 1974 when I started dating, the apple of his eye, his daughter Gina. In 1974, Gina & I married, so Rap has been a huge part of my life for forty years.
I have seen his highs & lows, the good and the bad in his life since 1974. Watched his dismay with his beloved Redskins, his frustrations when UVA blew games they were supposed to win and more.
The good times when his son Joe graduated law school at UVA, his daughter Gina graduating from VCU, the birth of his grandchildren, Andrew & Lindsey.
The bad times when he lost his beloved wife Mary, "The Duchess" of 55 years, the loss of his great friends including Paul "Flash" Rasmussen, Walter "Skibo" Babitsky, Joe Pitchford, Howard Smith & Garland Waddell amongst others.
Joe was not only the best father-in-law to me, but to others, whether father, grandfather, friend, colleague, he was simply the best.
Joe Rapisarda lived life & loved life to it's fullest.
A few days before his death he said to his daughter Gina "you know I have had a good run at life", and was so appreciative.
He grew up, the son of poor Italian immigrants, served his country in World War 2, put himself through college & law school, and retired from a very successful career in the insurance industry.
In that good run, Joe Rap has left an indelible mark on this world, left behind children & grandchildren with the best morals & fiber, many friends, colleagues & others better for having had Rap as part of their lives.
The world is a better place with Joseph Paul Rapisarda's footprint in it.
I love the man, Joe Rapisarda and along with his many relatives, friends & colleagues, will miss his presence until the day we leave this world.

As President of Woody Funeral Home, I extend our deepest sympathy from all our staff for your loss. We are committed to providing the utmost care to you at this time and throughout the days to come. Our purpose is to assist and serve you in a manner that exceeds your expectations. We pledge to strive to merit the trust you have reposed in us.