Leroy Harper

Leroy Harper was born April 5, 1938 to the late Morris and the late  Louise Harper. He was called home to be with the Lord on October 29, 2020. He was preceded in death by brothers, Clarence Lott, Monroe Lott, and Leon Lott; sisters, Eloise Harper and Wilma Poole.

On January 8, 1959, Leroy and Alma Willis were joined in holy matrimony and celebrated 61 years of marriage. Leroy was a loving father, husband, and a dear friend to many. He thoroughly enjoyed spending time with family, especially his grandchildren whom he loved dearly!

Leroy was a faithful member of St. John Baptist Church. He was ordained as a deacon on May 4, 1975,  and was affectionately known as Deacon Harper. He also enjoyed serving as an usher, teaching Sunday School, visiting nursing homes, and serving communion to members who were shut-in. His sincere love and compassion for spending time with the elderly was well known throughout many communities. 

The majority of Leroy’s professional career was with First National Bank which he retired from after 38 years of dedicated service. Leroy enjoyed a variety of sports including softball, baseball, fishing and of course, golf, his most cherished pastime. His discipline and self-taught skills earned him numerous titles, championships, trophies and awards throughout the state of Georgia, including Chattahoochee Golf course and Chicopee Woods. He dreamt of attending the Master’s golf championship at least once, and he was thrilled to have attended the Master’s three times. 

Leroy often reminded his children that he was “never” wrong except for that one time in 1984. He spent hours watching western movies, including his favorite, Tombstone, which he watched every Thanksgiving.  His light-heartedness, sweet way with animals, random questions, current events discussions, and his inquisitive nature will be greatly missed. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Alma Harper; four children, Larry Harper, Jacqueline (Gregory) Young, Charlene Harper, and Randall (Cassandra) Harper; brothers, Donnie Lott and Obadiah Lott; sisters, Lauzella Lott, Jacquelyn (James) Smith, Elizabeth (Chester) Whitener, and Patricia Reader; 8 grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.

Funeral service will be held Wednesday, November 4th, 2020 at 1:00 pm at St. John Baptist Church. Viewing will be Tuesday, November 3rd, 2020 from 1:00 pm -7:00 pm

Dexter T. Sims Mortuary, LLC, Gainesville, has charge of arrangements.