A true “lady,” Muriel was admired for her generosity, ability to listen and not judge, creativity, kindness to others, and integrity. All who knew her well enjoyed her fun-loving manner, infectious smile and giggle, and sense of style. Though Muriel took fashion cues from no one, she was rarely seen without her hair done and her lip color applied. In the winter, she loved to wear hats and was teased relentlessly by some of her children who marveled at the extremes to which she would go to not mess up her hair. She had a fondness for “kicking up her heels,” Willie Nelson’s music (even when she discovered he had a ponytail), picking buckets of fresh berries, and Sunday drives.
Muriel met John Rapa under a large maple tree in the Bath park while John was serving in the United States Coast Guard during World War II. They married in 1946.
Muriel was walking miles daily, long before being physically fit became a trend. While growing up on a farm as a child, she learned to appreciate fresh vegetables and would either grow them or find another way to make sure they appeared on the dinner table often. One of her favorite meals was a fresh cucumber sandwich, which she would share when pestered by her children. Store bought desserts were rarely an option, though when Drakes came out with the Devil Dog she caved for the convenience they brought in preparing school lunches.
Muriel excelled at growing flowers, quilting and sewing, cooking delicious desserts and spaghetti and meatballs (even though she said she only married an Italian), living within her means, reading almost any book she could get her hands on, and managing a home filled with boisterous children. She loved to learn and would spend hours self teaching anything that interested her. She took extreme pride in her children and 19 grandchildren for whom she would design and create quilts and toys and pretend to be Mrs. Claus on their phone calls.
Muriel’s greatest legacy is reflected in her family. Aside from her husband John, she leaves behind her children: Jeanne Dolliver, Joan Mac- Donald, Michael Rapa, Stephen Rapa, Rosalie Mulligan, and Susan Sinibaldi, 19 grandchildren and 18 greatgrandchildren, who all loved her. Though she will be sadly missed, the memories and lessons Muriel left with her family will guide them through: be fair and kind to others; always be yourself; kick up your heels and dance often; try to always look your best; listen more, talk less; live your life with integrity.
Muriel’s family will hold a private, family service, free of any type of showiness. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 1000, Dept. 142, Memphis, TN 38148.
To share your thoughts and condolences with the family, please visit www.desmondfuneralhomes.com.
Comments are not available on this story.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
