Raymond Capers

Raymond Capers was born in the town of Mt. Pleasant, Charleston County, South Carolina to the parents of Susan Simmons-Vanderhorst and Edward T. Capers on November 24, 1946. He was the youngest of six children, four of whom proceeded him in death; Rheba, Elizabeth, Jake, Jake Vanderhorst and Edward Capers. He leaves one sister; Lydia Capers-Boyce (John). On February 19, 1996 Raymond married his beloved wife ; May Beatrice Borders-Capers whom he leaves to mourn along with a host of inherited family members; son Lester Charles Hayes (Maylon-Tina) mother-in-law, Lula Borders, two grandchildren, seven great grands, four sisters-in-law; Elizabeth Gordan, Christine Stanford (Willie), Shirleen Mason (Charles) Brenda Jiles (Fred), and three brothers-in-law; William (Alice), Eddie Roy (Bertha), and Charles (Anna Marie) Borders. He also leaves to mourn a host of nieces, nephews (Harold Shaw the oldest nephew), special friends; Jeff Glover, and bill Edwards, cousins, family and friends in S.C. 
Raymond better known by his nieces, nephews, cousins, and hometown friends as “Unk” because he had nieces and nephews the same age, older and younger than himself. His friends at school began to tease him when they learned that Bev was his niece, and when she went to school she always bothered him for money or something when he was with his friends, they realized that he had quite a few other nieces and nephews, this is how he penned the name “Unk” Raymond attended segregated Laing Elementary and Laing High School. He excelled in high school basketball and was probably one of the best players in the state of South Carolina in the 60’s.Raymond was a compassionate player and a leader in the sport. 
Raymond entered active duty service On October 11, 1966 into the United States Marine Corps. During this period of service Raymond received orders for combat duty to Vietnam where he served for one year and received medals, decorations, and campaign ribbons. On August 31, 1971 he was honorably discharged from active duty. Raymond briefly attended college on the west coast and played with a semi-pro basketball league. He wanted to return to the military, and on August 21, 1974 he joined the United States Army and was sent to the Republic of Vietnam for the second time, and returned home with recognitions of numerous Army commendation medals and awards. 
Raymond went on to Drill Sergeant School, Advance Leadership Training School, German Headstart to learn the language, as well as Army pre-commission courses. Unk decided that it was time to leave active military service and retired form the U.S. Army on December 31, 1992 after serving over twenty-two years of active duty to his country. He was a veteran who suffered from the outcome of war physically and emotionally. He successfully served his county proudly and with dignity. His family was always very proud of him, his accomplishments and loved him unconditionally. He will surely be missed by all. He made many sacrifices and took care of all that needed him the most. “God Thank you for your grace and the grace that you freely gave to Raymond Capers to enter your Kingdom”. 
Raymond Capers entered into eternal rest on December 6, 2019 in Opp, Alabama. Lord Jesus we thank you for the challenges that he faced, but he is now safely in your safe place. You are that safe place for him; you will tenderly watch over him and give him everlasting peace, and guidance and be a reflective light forever and ever. 

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