Ralph Sterling Harper, 91, of Greenville, Texas went to be with his Heavenly Father on the morning of February 14, 2023. Ralph was born to Fleta Jane Hamilton and William James Harper on July 26, 1931, in Hillsboro, Texas.
Ralph was an avid outdoorsman and liked horses and rodeos. He also loved to sing, whistle, and play the harmonica. Ralph loved his family dearly, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The love of his life, Rosemary Harper, and he were married for over 70 years. Ralph was a proud charter member of Ridgecrest Baptist Church and a member of the United States Air Force. He graduated from Itasca High School at 15 years old and went to Navarro Junior College before joining the Air Force. Afterward, he went on to Texas A&M and graduated with a degree in Agriculture. He worked as a Territory Owner for LG Balfour and Taylor Publishing until retiring at 58. Most of all he loved his Lord Jesus.
Ralph is survived by his wife, Rosemary Harper. Daughter Sherry Latimer and Doug, and their children: Kelly Sass (Charles), Daniel Latimer (LeeAnn), and Julie Koeneman (Nate). Son, Larry Harper and Grace, and their children: Shannon Dorman (Robert), Chris Harper (Rebekah), Sarah Dell (Paul), Laura Harper, Nolan Harper (Emily), and Shawn Harper. Daughter, Tammy Layman and David, and their children: Jami AlKhayer (Corban), Joni Chastain (Joel), and Jaki Rix (Drew). Ralph is also survived by 27 great-grandchildren and a host of loving family and friends.
Ralph is preceded in death by his parents; brother, JD Harper; sisters: Allene Seldomridge, Lucille Branscome, Leola Marie Tinsley, and Mozelle Wooten; grandchild, Angel Latimer; and great-grandchild, Sage Dell.
A memorial service will take place at Lynch Funeral Service, Saturday, February 25, at 10:00 AM. The family asks that no flowers or plants be sent and that donations can be made in Ralph’s memory to Ridgecrest Baptist Church’s Benevolence Fund and their Youth Camps Fund.
