Emory Ray Tapp, a beloved patriarch, esteemed businessman, and legendary banjo picker, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, just weeks after celebrating his 93rd birthday. Born on September 4, 1932, to Dewey Tapp Sr. and Lelar Ray Tapp, Ray's life was defined by dedication—to his family, his craft, his music, and his faith.

Ray proudly served his country in the Army from 1953 to 1955 during the Korean War. Upon returning home, he put his skilled hands to work as a body repair man in Marietta and Cartersville before settling in Acworth. In 1971, he founded his own business south of Acworth on Main Street, where he quickly earned a reputation for fairness and integrity. He became a local legend in the automotive community, not only for the quality of his work but for his commitment to the next generation. Ray actively hired youth from the local high school, enthusiastically mentoring them and encouraging them to pursue careers in body repair.

Ray's life outside of work was filled with two major passions: Bluegrass Music and Antique Cars.

A self-taught banjo player, Ray was a familiar and welcome sight at bluegrass festivals and events throughout the surrounding areas, spending most weekends picking and playing. His commitment to the local music scene was evident as he was instrumental in the upstart of a long-running local festival, even purchasing necessary audio equipment when needed.

His other enduring love was for restoring and driving vintage automobiles. This passion extended far beyond his garage; Ray was highly active in numerous local and national antique car clubs, where he generously shared his expertise and leadership. He served not only as a dedicated member but also held various board member positions in organizations including the CHVA (Contemporary Historical Vehicle Association), the Model A Restorers Club, the AACA (Antique Automobile Club of America), and the HCCA (Horseless Carriage Club of America). Ray and his late wife, Fannie LueOlla Crisp Tapp, embarked on countless adventures in his meticulously restored cars, traveling across the country to places like Pikes Peak, Kansas, Canada, and even taking a memorable lap around the Indianapolis speedway. Following Olla's passing in 2000, Ray continued these wonderful journeys with his long-standing friend and companion, Carolyn Majors.

Ray was a loving family man and a leader in his community. His faith molded him into the icon and legend he became. Having accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior as a young man, he affirmed this core belief late in life by being baptized at the age of 92, ensuring his profession of faith was complete.

Ray was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Fannie LueOlla Crisp Tapp; his sister, Evelyn Bruce; and his brother, Dewey Tapp, Jr.

He is survived by his three children:

Daughter, Cathy Benson (Rollan); grandchildren Amanda Hicks (Jonny) and Bradley Benson (Andrea); and great-grandchildren Hannah and Emory Benson.
Daughter, Teresa Tapp.
Son, Roger Tapp; grandchildren Endyleen Culver and Chris Verhine (Shauna); and great-grandchildren Summer, Tyler, Haleigh, and Cameron Culver, Donvan Verhine, and Israel Cochran.
He will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and the entire Acworth community he served and loved so well.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at 11:00 am in the Chapel of Collins Funeral Home in Acworth with Rev. Perry Fowler and Rev. Blake Trent officiating. Burial will follow in Pine Ridge Memorial Park in Kennesaw. The family will receive friends on Wednesday October 8, 2025 from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm and from 9am until the funeral hour Thursday at the funeral home.

Collins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mr. Emory Ray Tapp.