Raleigh Lee ''R. L.'' Topping, Jr. 89, went home to meet his deceased loved ones, including his wife, Gratia Bell Myrick Topping, Tuesday, August 25, 2009. He was lovingly nicknamed ''daddy rabbit'' by his daughter, and ''Poppy Toppy'' by his eldest grandson, Stephen.

Mr. Topping was born December 10, 1919 and was the son of the late Rev. R. L. Topping, Sr. and Hurley Taylor Topping. A world contributor to America’s freedom as a World War II U.S. Army veteran with the 489th Company C 7th Armored Division (Lucky 7th), he will surely be missed. He was a lifelong member of First Christian Church in Roanoke Rapids that his father, R. L., Sr. founded and built. He was a valued member of the Roanoke Valley community and business.

He is survived by his daughter, Anne Calhoun and her husband, Dennis, of Roanoke Rapids; two grandsons, Stephen Clifton and Charles Calhoun and his wife, Barbi, all of Roanoke Rapids; a sister, Christine Bentley of McIntyre, GA; and twenty nieces and nephews.

Askew Funeral & Cremation Services in Roanoke Rapids is handling the arrangements, where the family will receive friends Wednesday, August 26, 2009 from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.

Graveside services will be held Thursday, August 27, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at Cedarwood Cemetery with Minister Dale Morris officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Eastern NC Chapter, 3101 Industrial Dr., Suite 210, Raleigh, NC 27609.

The flag in front of the funeral home flies at half-staff in honor of Mr. Topping’s service to his country.