William Boyd Raper, age 75, of Crossville, passed away August 21, 2020. Boyd was born on February 10, 1945 in the Homestead area of Cumberland County. He was the son of the late George Lafayette Raper and Peggy Florence Randolph Raper, and was married to Wilma Louise Ford Raper for 55 years. They had two daughters: Beth Raper Selby (Troy) and Leanne Raper Landers (Chad). They were also blessed with two granddaughters: Kaylee Selby and Paige Selby, and two step-grandchildren: Clay Landers and Addie Landers.

Boyd worked in various occupations throughout the years, including farmer, Cumberland County Property Assessor, and as a successful real estate broker, appraiser and auctioneer. He also served on the Cumberland County Board of Education for over thirteen years. Most recently, he enjoyed working as a funeral attendant at Crossville Memorial Funeral Home.

His love of singing was cultivated as a young boy as he traveled with his parents who taught at singing schools and sang at revivals. As an adult, Boyd enjoyed songwriting, singing and recording gospel music with various groups and at church. He also enjoyed refinishing furniture, caning and weaving, and gardening.

Boyd’s greatest joy was having all of his family together for big meals cooked by his wife Wilma, and watching his grandchildren excel in academics, band, basketball, and all of their endeavors.

In addition to his wife, children, and grandchildren, he is survived by his two brothers: Eddie Raper (Sarah) and Sam Raper (Sue); and niece: Crystal Smith (Eric).

A graveside service will be held in Oak Hill Cemetery on Genesis Road Sunday, August 23, 2020 at 2 p.m. central. Visitation will be held the day of the service from 12:30 until 2 p.m. at the cemetery.