Rafael Canete, beloved father, husband, brother, and friend passed away peacefully on Oct. 6th, 2024, after several months of declining health.  He was 80 years old.  His wife and children were with him.

He was pre-deceased by his son Eric, first wife Silvia, and son-in-law Toby.  He is survived by his son Ralph (wife Karen), daughter Melissa, wife of 30 years Susan, grandson Aubrey, brother Tony, sister Beva, one nephew, two nieces, and many extended family and cousins.

Rafael was a long-time parishioner at St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church. It is where his children were baptized and where he married Susan.  Susan was a member of the AIDS ministry and the funeral ministry.  Rafael always joked that he was her "assistant", providing help as needed with the ministries' activities.  In 2015, he and Susan retired and moved to Cape Coral, FL.  They had recently moved back to Newnan, GA, to be closer to his children when his health began to decline.

Rafael was a self-made man.  He immigrated from his birth country of Cuba when he was just 18 years old, traveling alone and not knowing any English.  He trained in the printing industry in New York City, and after several moves around the country and Costa Rica, he settled in Jonesboro, GA. At one time, he employed over 100 people at Capitol Color Printing in Morrow, GA

Rafael was a kind, compassionate, and fair man, loved by many.  He loved the Lord and was a man of great faith.  He always saw the best in others and sought only harmony and peace in his relationships.  He will be deeply missed.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church on Friday, Nov. 15th, at 11:00 AM.  Visitation in the church's gathering space will begin at 10:00 AM.  Burial of his ashes will be private and will take place at Honey Creek Woodlands.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church.  A special thanks to Inspire Hospice home care for their wonderful support and care during this sad, difficult time, especially Nurse Jess.