Lori Ann Raper

Lori Ann Raper, age 37, of 310 Collier Street, Vienna went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, August 15, 2009. She was born in Macon County on May 12, 1972. Lori was a special needs child. She attended Macon County Mental Retardation Center for several years before moving to the Georgia Retardation Center in Athens. She later moved to Brookrun, a state institution for persons with developmental disabilities and graduated from the DeKalb County Special Education Program in 1994. In 1997, she moved to the Rufus Coody Home for Women in Vienna, a group home operated by Easter Seals of Southern Georgia. Although Lori was unable to speak, she communicated with ease to those who knew her and loved her well. She loved music, bright colors and warm hugs. Lori's life was an example of unconditional love and trust. We are blessed to have been a part of her circle of friends.

Lori is survived by her mother, Janie Cranford, her father, Lewis Raper and three brothers. She will be especially missed by her housemates, her loving caregivers at Easter Seals, her favorite "Mama," Mae Lois Green, her nurse, Mary Ann Gregory and her guardian, Beth English. Lori was a member of Vienna United Methodist Church and was baptized by Rev. Shane Green.

A graveside service will be held at 10 AM Tuesday, August 18 in Vienna City Cemetery.

The family will greet friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service.

Memorial gifts may be made to Easter Seals, 1906 Palmyra Road, Albany, GA 31701.

Brannen-NeSmith Funeral Home of Vienna has charge of arrangements.