Summing up 94 years of a remarkable man’s life in a few words is difficult, but we will do our best.

Thomas L. Rapp Sr. was born on August 25, 1931, to Raymond Rapp Sr. and Edith Reybaud in Galveston, Texas. He passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025, surrounded by his family. Tom is preceded in death by his loving wife, Rosalie Wason, his parents, and three brothers: Raymond, James and Robert.

The youngest of four boys, Tom attended Kirwin High School in Galveston and subsequently went on to attend Texas A&M University as a member of the Fightin’ Texas Aggie class of 1953 and earned a Master of Physics in 1955.

While Tom would recall his time in College Station fondly, his greatest joy was his almost fifty-year marriage to his sweetheart Rose, whom he married in 1951. Together, they raised their five children and exemplified the ideals of hard work, service, faith, and love.

Although Tom retired from Union Carbide after thirty years, his retirement was far from quiet as he continued working for another twelve years with his son building homes. He was also a Certified Financial Planner who generously used his knowledge to help others build wealth. He and Rose enjoyed traveling together, exploring new places and making lasting memories. Tom also dedicated much of his time to volunteering with various organizations, continuing his lifelong commitment to service. Whether assisting his children with home projects or helping friends in need, Tom’s generosity and willingness to lend a hand never faded. His retirement was a testament to the values he lived by hard work, kindness, and devotion to others.

Poppie, as he was affectionately known to his grandchildren and great- grandchildren, loved to spend time with his family. His encouragement, support, and love were felt deeply by each one and it is something they will carry with them forever. The greatest gift he gave was his love and wisdom.

Tom is survived by his five children, Tom Jr. (Brenda), Greg (RoseAnn), Teresa (Edward), Russ (Jan), and Jerome (Antonio), seven grandchildren, and eight (soon to be nine) great-grandchildren.

A devout Catholic, he attended daily Mass and faithfully prayed the Holy Rosary until the very end. And when asked how to live a good, long life, he simply answered, “clean living and clear conscience.”

A great void now exists in our hearts, but we find comfort knowing that he is reunited with Rose, dancing and enjoying the loving embrace of our God. And we carry his message in our hearts reminding us that we are blessed, and life is good.

Funeral services for Tom will be held on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 11:00 am with a Rosary starting at 11:30 am and a funeral Mass at 12:00 pm at Shrine of The True Cross Catholic Church, in Dickinson, Texas. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, Dickinson, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the charity of your choice and pray the Rosary for Tom’s soul.