Mr. Roberto L. Raphael, Sr.

It is with sadness and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of Roberto L. Raphael, Sr., who departed this life on September 3, 2026,  at the age of 85.  Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Ray Williams Memorial Chapel, 301 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606, with Reverend Eugenio Raphael, Officiating. 

Born in Colón, Panama, Roberto began his life’s journey surrounded by the culture, warmth and spirit of his homeland.  At the young age of 18, he came to the United States with the hopes and dreams of building a better future.  Soon after arriving and settling in New York, Roberto proudly served his adopted country in the United States Army. 

Following his military service, Roberto dedicated himself to working hard and providing for his family.  He married Selma Daniels and had two children, Roberto Jr. and Ingrid.  He understood the value of responsibility, perseverance and sacrifice, and he carried those values throughout his life.  Roberto went on to build a long and successful career in the airline industry, where he worked for more than 30 years before retiring.

In retirement, Roberto made his home in Tampa, FL, where he enjoyed one of the greatest joys of his life – spending time with family and friends.

Perhaps one of the most meaningful chapters of his life was finding the love of his life, Myra Harvey.  Together they shared a special bond filled with love, companionship and devotion that remained strong until his passing.

Roberto will be remembered as a hardworking, devoted and loving man.  Though he will be deeply missed, his memory, his love and the lessons he shared will remain forever in the hearts of those he leaves behind.

He is preceded in death by: his wife, Selma Raphael; his siblings, Carolyn and Eleanor and extended son Reginald.

He leaves to cherish his memory:  his son, Roberto Jr. of Atlanta, GA and his children, Shanice, Brittney, Kurtis, Janai, Jada, and Roberto; daughter, Ingrid (Adam) of Tampa, FL and their son, Sammy; his life partner, Myra and her children, Debra (Walter), Ronda, and Darrel; seven bonus grandchildren and eight great grandchildren; siblings, Barbara (Carl) of Maryland, Marcela of Florida, Norma of Maryland, Erick (Gloria) of Florida, Julieta (Hurshell) of Virginia, and Barbara of Florida; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members and very close friends worldwide.

Rest in peace.  You will always be loved, always remembered and never forgotten.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Ray Williams Funeral Home, 301 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606.

Arrangements entrusted to Ray Williams Funeral Home, Rhodes & Northern, Owners

www.raywilliamsfuneralhome.com

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