Teresa Lynn Raper

Teresa Lynn Raper, a loving mother, daughter, sister, and dear friend, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2026. She was born on May 8, 1956, in Little Rock, Arkansas. Teresa’s life was centered around the people she loved, and her kind, caring heart made a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.

Teresa spent many years working at Huckabees in Tull, Arkansas, and later as a caseworker at Birch Tree Communities. Caring for others wasn’t just her job—it was who she was. She devoted herself to taking care of her parents, doing so with love and without complaint. Whether it was doctor’s appointments, trips to the lake, or family vacations to Branson, Teresa was always there, putting others first in a way that came naturally to her.

She loved being near the water and found peace at the lake or the ocean. Teresa also enjoyed camping and spending time outdoors, where she felt most at home. She had a vibrant spirit that showed in everything she did, especially in the way she loved her family. She also enjoyed simple things in life, including fresh vegetables—especially homegrown tomatoes and cucumbers—which she truly loved.

Her daughters—Heather Raper Rivera, Courtney Raper Campbell (Aaron), and Brittanie Raper—were her world. She never missed their games or practices and was always their biggest supporter. Teresa had a special way of making holidays and celebrations feel magical, adding her own “gold sparkle” to every moment. Known as a bit of a “bougie diva,” she was loved and spoiled by her parents and her brother, Gary Eugene Spann, who was not only her protector but also her best friend.

Family also fondly remembers all the laughter and shenanigans Teresa shared with her best bud of 36 years, Diane Coffman. The two of them were inseparable, and their friendship was filled with joy, laughter, and countless memories that will be cherished forever.

She leaves behind her husband Greg Raper, daughters Heather, Courtney, and Brittanie; her grandchildren Jayce Ryan Cotton Shelnutt, Aaron “Austin” Campbell, Jadelynn Brooke Rivera, Jay Zander Rivera, Alexis Brooke Wyles , and Pailyn Grace Rhodes; her best bud of 36 years, Diane Coffman; along with many other family members and friends who will miss her deeply.

Teresa was preceded in death by her daughter, Cassie Raper; her parents, Coy Cotton and Mary Ellen (Fox) Spann; her brother, Gary Eugene Spann; and her beloved fur baby, Baby Girl.

A visitation to honor Teresa’s life will be held on April 29, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton. In lieu of flowers, family has requested donations be made to Smith-Benton Funeral Home, by calling 501-778-7100, to assist in this unexpected expense.

Teresa will be remembered for her love, her loyalty, and the way she showed up for the people in her life every single day. The memories she created and the love she gave will live on in all who knew her.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.