James Arthur Raper Jr.

James Raper, age 88, departed on February 11, 2022. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy Howell Raper, parents, and two older sisters. James was born on December 2, 1933, in Marshall, Texas.

He is survived by his four children and their spouses; James Andrew Raper and his wife Jean, Scott Alan Raper and his wife Maria, John Thomas Raper, and Lori Raper Bausman and her husband Greg. His ten grandchildren, Maven, Mariah, Marley, Alana, Paul, Natalie, Christopher, Gage, Anna, and Evan, called him PawPaw. And last but not least, James was a proud great-grandpa to Jude.

James graduated from The University of Texas with a degree in Business Administration. Here he met the love of his life, and wife of 64 years, Nancy. They enjoyed traveling, hosting large family gatherings at their home on Lake Austin, and spending summers in Ruidoso, New Mexico, with friends and family. After Nancy’s passing in 2020, he missed her greatly.

While at UT, James was a member and president of the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity. He is thankful for his fraternity brothers who became lifelong friends. After college, he spent two years in the US Army before returning to Austin. He worked for ten years at Austin Savings and Loan Association as a loan officer and Vice President before starting his own business. At Central Insurance Agency and Central Properties, James was fortunate to call many dedicated employees both friends and colleagues. He was immensely proud that, to this day, these family businesses continue to thrive under family management.

James enjoyed life, had a mischievous sense of humor, and cherished spending time with friends. He spent many fun days on the golf course and served as President of the Austin Country Club. Growing up in Marshall with the “Caddo Crew”, James honed his skills at poker, and his lifelong love of going to the “picture show” always reminded him of these earlier days with friends. Later in life, this enjoyment of poker motivated him to become computer savvy so he could enjoy a good game online. He truly enjoyed the friendship shown to him by his neighbors and staff at Westminster and, in particular, his breakfast crew.

At a later date, the family will be arranging a memorial service to honor both James and Nancy. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the charity of your choice.