Gwendolyn Diane Rapp, 71, of Davis, WV, passed away March 22, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her family. Born on June 6, 1954, in Charleston, WV, she was the daughter of the late Glen Bratton and Clarice Lola (Hamrick) Samples.

Gwendolyn was a beloved graduate of Mountaineer High School who continued her education at Fairmont State College and Potomac State College. She devoted many years to Tucker County Schools, serving first as a classroom aide and later as a secretary, where her warm heart and gentle spirit touched the lives of countless children. Together with her best friend, Carol Helmick, she owned and operated a preschool and daycare center, creating a nurturing environment where little ones felt safe, loved, and valued.

Above all, Gwendolyn lived for her family. She poured her heart and soul into planning family get-togethers and holidays, making every detail special so that her loved ones felt cherished and celebrated. She was known for her delicious home cooking and baking, especially her famous peanut butter fudge that quickly became a treasured tradition. In quieter moments, she found joy in reading her Bible, working Sudoku puzzles, and simply relaxing on the swing with her husband, children, and grandchildren gathered close. Her grandchildren were her world; she supported them in every activity and milestone, filling their lives with unconditional love and joyful memories. A faithful member of the Community Bible Church, Gwendolyn left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know her, reminding all of the beauty found in a life rooted in faith, family, and selfless care for others.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Allen W. Rapp, to whom she was married on June 23, 1973; her children, A.J. Rapp and wife Alison of Davis, WV, and Jessica Jones and husband Kelley of Bridgeport, WV; five grandchildren, Cole Allen Rapp, Jillian Rapp Lutz and husband Caleb, Gracie Jo Rapp, Hayden Christopher Jones, and Cade Bratton Rapp; four siblings, Teresa Samples Simmons and husband Terry of Parsons, WV, Susan Samples Fink and husband Daniel of Santa Rosa Beach, FL, Glen "Dick" Samples of Ridgley, WV, and Boyd "Bodie" Samples of Woodbridge, VA; and her lifelong friend, who was more like a sister, Carol Watring Helmick of Thomas, WV.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sunshine Fund that Gwen started at the Davis Thomas Middle School. PO Box 250, Thomas, WV 26292

Friends will be received on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, from 4 to 7 PM, at the Community Bible Church. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 11 AM in the Church with Pastor John Callaway officiating. Interment will follow in the Davis Cemetery.

The Fredlock & Fenner Funeral Homes - Davis Chapel is honored to be serving the Rapp family.