Raymond Taupule

Obituary Info

Raymond Taupule was born December 3, 1979, to Ami Taupule and Pula Leilua in Lynwood, California. Raymond was a hard working and loving man. He was an amazing athlete who went from California to West Texas to the Midwest and back to West Texas. Raymond attended West Texas A&M University where he was a standout student athlete. He was the ultimate protector on the offensive line. His talent helped him have a chance at playing at the highest level in the NFL, and he was a free agent with the Detroit Lions. He then moved back to Amarillo, where he helped to lead the Amarillo Dusters to a championship in its inaugural season.

Raymond, known as big Ray around the city, was a big gentle giant that had heart and compassion. He had a big intimidating exterior, but he had true heart and compassion for the well-being of others.

Raymond met the love of his life, Diana and spent the last 20 plus years by her side through it all. They met while he attended WTAMU. He was an amazing husband, father, and provider. He was the ultimate girl’s dad, before it became a cool label.

He was employed by International Paper, where everyone who he worked with loved when he was around. He will always be remembered for his cool and easy demeanor. This was something he displayed even during the last few years battling his fight against, “Glioblastoma”. You would check on him, but he always wanted to make sure you were okay instead. He kept his protective attitude about caring for everyone else, until the day he transitioned.

He was a huge Bear fan, even though his brother, Tone, tried his best to convert him! GO BEARS GO!

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife: Diana Soria Taupule; children, Michelle B. Soria Taupule and Leilani A. Taupule; grandchildren, Miguel, Gomillion; parents, Pula Laupepa and Salamo Togia Fiso; mother-in-law, Rosario Soria; father-in-law, Damacio Soria; brothers, Tone, Kalani, Salamo, Jr., Germaine, Tony W.; sisters, Agnes, Yvette, Raquel, Rosemary; nieces, Cassandra, Casarah, Ceanna, Jayleana; nephews, Isiah, Noel, Kalani, Taisou, Darrion, Brandon, Steven; godchildren, Noel, Isiah, and Michelle Ford; and a host family and friends.

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