Richard Vincent Raupp

Richard Vincent Raupp, 61, passed away on February 18, 2026, just one day shy of his 62nd birthday. Born on February 19, 1964, in New Jersey, Richard spent much of his life moving through the world on his own terms. He was independent, searching, and determined to live life his own way. After years of carving his own path, he made his home in Salem, Virginia, where he spent the remaining years of his life.
Richard was a man of strong will and a bold, unmistakable presence. Stubborn, sarcastic, and often unexpectedly funny. He saw the world in black and white, rarely entertaining much gray in between. He valued independence and solitude, finding peace in nature, in the woods watching wildlife, near the water with a fishing pole, or simply outside enjoying the quiet. His beloved dogs, Maggie and Cdog, and his cat, Tom Tom, were constant companions and brought him steady comfort.
Gifted with his hands, Richard was a skilled carpenter and electrician. There was little he could not fix, whether it was a vehicle, wiring, or something around the house. He especially enjoyed wood working, carving, and building things from scratch, finding quiet satisfaction in creating something solid and lasting with his own hands. He lived modestly, never above his means, believing in taking care of what he had and relying on himself whenever possible.
Richard was predeceased by his wife, Reva Raupp, and his sister, Ann. He is survived by his only daughter, Alisha Byles, and her husband, Robert Byles Jr.; his grandsons, Seth Byles and his partner, Ashley Soler; Jack Byles and his wife, Irina Byles; Jude Byles; and Maxwell Byles. He is also survived by his brothers, Vincent Raupp and Terry Compani, along with many nieces and nephews.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to his nurse and dear friend Cindy, his loyal friend Boyd, and to Dr. Adrienne Kinsey. Their care and steady presence over the past several years meant more than words can express. The friendships they shared were mutual and meaningful, bringing comfort, dignity, and companionship during his time in Virginia.
Richard lived a life that was not always easy. He carried personal struggles that shaped many of his choices and relationships. He could be hard on others and, at times, hard to understand. But he remained unapologetically himself. When he was at his best, he was capable, generous, and wonderful. When he was at odds with the world, he was still undeniably Richard, a man who often meant better than he sometimes showed.
He will be remembered for his independence, his unfiltered humor, his self-reliance, and for answering the phone with, "Hey kiddo, it's me, your dad."
We find comfort imagining him reunited with his beloved Reva and can only smile at the thought of her greeting him with, "Oh boy... is he here already?"
A private cremation will take place. There will be no public services.
He lived life imperfectly, honestly, and entirely his own way.
He will be missed.
Online condolences may be expressed to the Raupp family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.