Vera Yvonne Tapp departed this world at Deaconess Gateway Hospital in Newburgh, IN, on October 20, 2024, after a long battle with illness, at the age of 63.
Vera was not just a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, niece, and cousin; she was a cherished friend and a radiant light in the lives of all who knew her.
Born on November 25, 1960, and raised in Owensboro, Kentucky, Vera’s roots were deeply embedded in her hometown, where she cultivated lifelong relationships and a legacy of love. It was there that she met her “Sweet Daddy T,” who spoiled, loved, and cared for her until the day she went on to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Vera later moved to Paducah, where she attended West Kentucky Tech, graduating with a degree in Culinary Arts. Her passion for cooking and baking was unmatched, and she delighted in sharing her creations with family and friends, making every meal feel like a celebration of love. Vera had a zest for life and loved playing cards with her friends and family. She also enjoyed the thrill of gambling, but her love for Jesus was unwavering. In the final chapter of her journey, she devoted everything to her faith, trusting in God’s grace and finding peace in His embrace.
Vera is survived by her loving husband, Pastor Clarence Tapp Jr.; daughters Deonna Tapp (Eric) of Hopkinsville, KY, and Miranda Ford (Donnie) of Paducah, KY; and stepdaughters Tracy Curry (Billy) of Owensboro, KY; Denisha Shemwell of Cincinnati, Ohio; Dorothy Outerbridge (Mason) of Owensboro, KY; and Elizabeth Tapp of Chicago, IL. She also leaves behind her beautiful grandchildren, Canaan Sinclair Tapp, Gunniah Sinclair Tapp, Nathaniel “Nate” Wayne Thompson, Bella Sinclair Tapp, De’Karri Messiah Ford, River Vivace Sinclair Tapp, Ka’Brella Kasmere Sinclair Buckner, and Yara Yvonne Sinclair Buckner. Known affectionately as ‘Granny’—a name given to her by her special grandchild Jaleigha Winston—not just by her own grandchildren and step-grandchildren but by many, she didn’t play about a single one!
While her husband was the head of the household, everyone knew that ultimately, she was ‘the boss.’ Vera is also survived by her siblings: Vannessa Riley of Le Marque, TX; Vivian (Larry) Riley of Hopkinsville, KY; Victoria (Eddie) Riley of Hopkinsville, KY; Vayne Riley of Owensboro, KY; Jon Floyd-Riley of Owensboro, KY; Bertram Riley III of Owensboro, KY; Trent Riley (NaShaw-na) of Hanover, Maryland; Dionne Riley-McKenzie of Owensboro, KY; James Riley of Atlanta, Georgia; Dreama Riley-Lewis of Augusta, Georgia; and Darius Riley of Owensboro, KY—each of whom touched her life in different ways, with some sharing a particularly close bond with her over the years. Additionally, Vera shared a special sisterhood with Joyce Griffith of Owensboro, KY, who held an irreplaceable place in her heart.
Vera was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Geraldine Riley ‘Doll Baby,’ and her father, Bertram Riley Sr., as well as her cherished grandparents, Vera Lee Hinton, affectionately known as ‘Memomie,’ Lucian Moorman, Camp Gertrude Douglas, and James Curtis Douglas. Most recently, on October 1st of this year, Vera faced the heartbreaking loss of her son, Gunnar Sinclair Tapp, whose spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved them both.
Vera Yvonne Tapp’s legacy of love, faith, and compassion will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her. She leaves behind a profound impact through her nurturing spirit, culinary talents, and the joy she brought to every gathering.
As we celebrate her life, we find comfort in knowing she is at peace, reunited with loved ones, and watching over her family as their guiding light. In honor of Vera, let us cherish our memories of her and carry forward the love she so generously shared.
A memorial service to honor and celebrate the life of Vera Tapp will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday October 30, 2024 at UP Church, 1836 W 5th St, Owensboro, KY 42301, Bishop Robert Randolph, Pastor. Evangelist Michael Johnson will be the Officiant, Rev. Cerita Carter will be the Eulogist and Elder J. Darnel Flowers will be minister of music for the service.
Please leave memories, media, and messages of condolence for the family at www.mcfarlandfh.com.
Care by McFarland Funeral Home, Inc., 1001 W 5th St., Owensboro, KY 42301.