Autumn Rapp Pennsylvania Obituary: With deep sorrow, the emergency services community of western Pennsylvania is remembering the life and legacy of Autumn Rapp, a dedicated advanced emergency medical technician (AEMT) whose commitment to caring for others left an enduring impact on everyone she served and worked beside.
Autumn, who was from Shippenville and made her home in West Freedom, Pennsylvania, passed away unexpectedly this week. She was known not only as a skilled clinician but also as a compassionate colleague and a cherished friend to many.
A member of Cranberry Township EMS, Autumn also served with East Brady Ambulance, Karns City Regional Ambulance, and previously with Emlenton Ambulance. In every role, she demonstrated an unwavering dedication to helping people in crisis, often going above and beyond to ensure patients and their families were treated with dignity and respect.
News of her passing has left her colleagues heartbroken. In a statement, Cranberry Township EMS shared, “With profound sadness, we announce the unexpected passing of our colleague and friend, AEMT Autumn Rapp. Our thoughts are with Autumn’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside her. We were fortunate to know Autumn not only as a skilled clinician but as a remarkable person who touched countless lives.”
Those who knew Autumn describe her as someone who could light up even the darkest moment with her warm smile and genuine kindness. Fellow EMS professional Justin O’Hara offered a moving tribute, writing, “Damn it, girl… I got nothing… you were such a wonderful person. I’ve seen you in some dark times and always called you out on it and helped you through them. I just wish you would have reached out… everyone does. I don’t think you realized how much you lit up a room when you walked in… because of you, I have some damn good stories to tell though. Keep watch over us. We’ve got it from here, girl.”
Autumn’s colleagues often noted that she had a special way of making everyone feel valued, whether she was on a call or simply sharing a quiet moment with her team. In a field where stress and urgency are constant, her steady presence and quick wit brought relief and connection.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Autumn was deeply proud of her roots in Shippenville and the relationships she built throughout Clarion County and beyond. Her commitment to serving others was matched only by her generosity and her ability to lift spirits during the most difficult shifts.
Autumn’s passing is a reminder of the challenges first responders face—challenges that can be both visible and unseen. Many in the EMS and fire service communities have expressed the hope that her memory will inspire continued support for mental health resources and honest conversations about the stresses that come with caring for others.
As her friends and family gather to remember her life, there is comfort in the stories and memories she leaves behind. From early mornings in the ambulance bay to late-night calls, Autumn brought dedication, courage, and compassion to every moment.
Though words can never capture the full measure of her spirit, those who knew Autumn best will carry her example forward: to serve with heart, to care without judgment, and to remind each other that none of us are alone.
Arrangements to celebrate Autumn’s life will be announced by her family in the coming days. In the meantime, the Cranberry Township EMS and surrounding agencies ask the public to keep her loved ones and colleagues in their thoughts.
Autumn Rapp will be remembered always for her service, her kindness, and the many lives she touched.
Rest in peace, Autumn Rapp
