Rapier Smith was the oldest in a family of eight children born to B.L. and Sylvia Rapier Smith. They lived on a farm, known as the "William Heavenhill" farm. Rapier attended Bethlehem Academy elementary school, then St. Joe Prep. Rapier learned early on in life thee meaning of hard work which has served him well throughout his life.

Rapier's father started Distillery Transfer Service in addition to his farming and raising of cattle. After school each day, Rapier and his younger brothers would work in the business of trucking as well as helping feed cattle and other farm chores. After finishing high school, Rapier was a full time employee of the truck line, working in all phases of the operation. Rapier attended night classes at St. Catherine College and also U of L, studying transportation.

Eventually Rapier started Smith Brothers Trucking, and now is the sole owner and manager of this entity which employs nearly 100 people, including several family members. Besides his interest in the trucking business, Rapier also has been involved in politics and civic affairs of the community. He was appointed Parks Commissioner under the administration of Wallace Wilkinson. Rapier was able to bring many good things to Bardstown and Nelson County, mainly the addition of another nine holes at the Old Kentucky Home State Park. In 1996, Rapier ran for the State Senator from the 14th District, but was defeated by the incumbent. Rapier continues to be involved in community affairs, and on of his favorite interests is the St. Joe Prep. Alumni organization.

Rapier married Violet Taylor from Fredericktown in 1955. They are the parents of seven children, all living in Bardstown. Rapier is a life-long member of St. Joseph Cathedral, Knights of Columbus, is on the Board of Directors at the Farmers Bank, and a board member of the Kentucky Motor Transportation Association. In 1991, Rapier was voted Citizen of the Year. The Rapier Smith Family received an award from the Archdiocese Office of Catholic Schools for dedication to Catholic Education in 1989--all seven children attended St. Joseph Grade School and Bethlehem High School.