Friday, March 29, 2024

Helen Ruth Harper – Obituary

Harper, Helen 001Helen Ruth Harper, age 86 years, a resident of Vienna, passed away Wednesday evening, July 2, 2014, at 10 PM at Baptist Health in Paducah, Kentucky.

Helen was born January 18, 1928 in Creal Springs.  She was the daughter of Barney and Nellie Ruth “Lula Bell” (Hundly) Fitzgerald.

On November 21, 2004, Helen was united in marriage to Norman Harper at Reynoldsburg Church.  He survives.

Other survivors include: her son – Monte Harper of Eagle River, Alaska; a stepson – Paul Harper of Scotts Bluff, Nebraska; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; 4 sisters – Margie Harris, Brenda Fleming, Diane Strunk, and Jeani West; 4 brothers – Charles, Ronnie, Dallas, and Danny Forcum; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends.

In addition to her parents, Helen was preceded in death by: a stepdaughter  Suzanne Harper Gamster; her beloved maternal grandparents – Almus & Nettie Hundly; and her faithful canine companion “Josie.”

Helen had a zest for life.  She was a skilled artisan and wood carver.  Helen also loved music and singing.  She was a gifted writer and had authored the book “Pig and a Sack of Stray Cats.”  In her youth, Helen had been an avid golfer.

Helen and Norman worshiped together at the Reynoldsburg Church near Tunnel Hill.

A memorial service will be conducted at 1 PM Saturday, July 12, 2014, at the Reynoldsburg Church near Tunnel Hill.  Pastor Pete Vinson will officiate.  Private inurnment was in the Reynoldsburg Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 12:30 PM – 1 PM Saturday at the church.

The preferred form of remembrance would be contributions for the care and maintenance of the Reynoldsburg Cemetery sent in care of Bob Harper, 30 Harpertown Lane, Tunnel Hill, Il 62972.

To share a memory of Helen or to leave an online message of condolence for her family, please visitwww.baileyfh.com

Arrangements have been entrusted to Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna.