Edmond Craig Tappin

Edmond Craig Tappin was born on December 3, 1948, to the union of Israel D. and Gloria D. Tappin in St. Louis, Missouri.

Edmond received his education in the St. Louis Public School system and graduated from Sumner High School in 1966. During his high school years, he was a proud member of the marching band, where he played the clarinet with dedication and spirit.

Following graduation, he attended Forest Park Community College before voluntarily enlisting in the United States Navy with tours of duty in Vietnam and Japan. He faithfully served four years as a Radioman, specializing in maintaining the Navy’s communications technology system. While in Japan, he met Nobuko Suda, and it was love at first sight. Together they shared more than 24 years of loving marriage and devoted companionship. They lovingly cared for their cherished fur babies, Copper, Mimi, Geisha, and Buster. Nobuko preceded him in death.

After completing his military service, Edmond began a distinguished career with the United States Postal Service as a letter carrier. For more than 40 years, he faithfully served the communities of Brentwood, Kirkwood, and Overland. He was deeply respected and warmly regarded by customers along his routes, and his colleagues, who admired his kindhearted spirit.

A man of deep faith, Edmond placed God first in all that he did. He accepted Christ at an early age and nurtured his spiritual life throughout the years. His Christian journey led him to Berea Presbyterian Church, Cote Brilliante Presbyterian Church, Page Boulevard Church of Christ, and most recently The First Assembly Church in St. Peters. He also devoted time to leading and participating in Bible study with fellow believers, sharing both wisdom and encouragement.

Edmond had many gifts. Following in his father’s footsteps, he became an avid barber, taking pride in cutting hair for the family and neighbors alike. He passed down the treasured vintage family clippers, and his nephews now continue that legacy of craftsmanship.

Music was another enduring love. As a teenager, Edmond sang with The Christ Church Cathedral Chorus and later continued his musical ministry with the St. Louis County Community Chorus. His rich tenor voice was unmistakable and uplifting, a sound that brought joy to many and praise to God.

In 1998, Edmond was blessed to find love again and married Tracy Lynn Williams. Together they built a life grounded in faith, love, and companionship as they loved and cared for her son, Chad.

Even in retirement, Edmond’s desire to serve remained strong. After concluding his 41 year career with the Postal Service, he joined the team at Al’s Automotive Supply, where he graciously delivered auto parts throughout his route in the metro area for 10 years. He delighted in the daily interactions with the community he loved, as well as the extended family established with his coworkers.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, younger Sister, Rhonda Gail Tappin Frazier, Sister-in-law Mona Neal-Handy, and Brother-in-law Officer Willie Neal, Jr.

Edmond went on his last route when he went to be with the Lord on February 16th, 2026.

He leaves to cherish his precious memory his loving wife, Tracy Williams-Tappin; Stepson, Chad C. Williams; Brother, Brian A. Tappin (Joyce Smith); Sisters, Jocelyn Tilghman-Anderson (Willie Melvin), Karla M. Mansion (Bernard), and Robyn R. Toatley; Mother-in-law, Delores Williams; Sisters-in-law, Jacqueline Wilson, Anita Williams, Carleatha Neal, Aunts, Rodessa L. Goodum Sr., Shirley Jean Acker (Kevin), and Carolyn Joyce Blair.

His legacy continues through a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.