Jacob "Jake" Thomas Rafferty

Jacob "Jake" Thomas Rafferty obituary, Columbus, OH

Jacob "Jake" Thomas Rafferty

Jacob "Jake" Rafferty Obituary

Visit the Leaf Cremation - Columbus website to view the full obituary.

Jacob “Jake” Thomas Rafferty

September 1, 1983 – August 13, 2025


Jacob “Jake” Thomas Rafferty, age 41, of Logan, Ohio, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025, after a brief illness.

Born to Clay and Teresa Rafferty on September 1, 1983, Jake was a 2001 graduate of Tri-County JVS–Logan-Hocking. He was a man of deep faith, fierce love, and a spirit that embraced the outdoors and the open road.

Jake found joy in country drives, hiking, fishing, camping, and riding his Harley and dirt bike. He was an avid reader and a devoted father who cherished every moment with his children. He was a member of the Eagles, Moose, and a longtime member of the Tri-County Nite Hunters.

Jake lived by the words: “Having calm in your life is what is most important.” But above all, he believed that “Family means everything,” and he reminded his children of his love every single day.

He is survived by his children: Trinity Anne, Mason Thomas, and Andrew Thomas Rafferty; sister Kathryn “Katie Jo” Rafferty; significant other Michele Tierney; former wife Vicki Rafferty; mother-in-law Debbie Stimmel; grandmother Beverly Lawrence; special cousin Jennifer (Mark) Jackson; dear friends Josh Hackney and Crystal Eggert; and many loving aunts and uncles: Jeff (Carla) Lawrence, Tim (Cindy) Lawrence, Toni (Danny) Vermillon, Clyde Rafferty, Becky (Greg) Miller, and Lissy (Brian) McManaway. Also surviving are brother-in-law Shane (Kristen) Stimmel and sister-in-law Amy (Jason) Keith.

Jake was preceded in death by his father-in-law Don Stimmel; grandparents Lloyd and Ruth Rafferty, Carl Lawrence; great-grandparents Virgil and Cora McKnight, Kathryn “Kate” Gessells; aunt Teresa Rafferty; and several other beloved family members.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Jake’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.


Message from the Family

We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. Jake’s life was a gift to all of us, and his memory will be cherished forever. Thank you for honoring him with your presence, your prayers, and your stories.


Tribute Poem: “Ride On, Jake”

The road you loved now stretches wide, Beyond the hills, beyond the tide. With Harley’s hum and country breeze, You found your calm, your soul at ease.You taught us love, you lived it loud, You stood with faith, forever proud. Though we must part, your light remains, In whispered winds and summer rains.So ride on, Jake, through skies so blue, Our hearts will always ride with you.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Leaf Cremation - Columbus

1970 Alum Creek Drive, Columbus, OH 43207

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