Raymond R. Harper's Obituary
Raymond R. Harper, 81, of Ramsey, formerly of Decatur, died Monday, July 30, 2007, in Fayette County Hospital, Vandalia.
Ray was born November 25, 1925, in Decatur, son of Russell A. and Madeline Moran Harper. He graduated from Stephen Decatur High School and attended Millikin University for two years. He retired from A.E. Staley Co. in 1985 after 38 years of service. Ray was a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Ramsey; lifetime member of the Decatur Knights of Columbus Council #577, Golden Kiwanis, and DAV #17. He served in the Navy during WWII and was awarded the Victory Medal, American Area Campaign Medal, Asiatic Pacific Medal, European African Medal, and the Philippine Liberation Medal. He was a past member of the National Association of the Accountants; Machine Accounts Assoc, and Institute of Internal Auditors. Ray also managed Little League Baseball for several years, and volunteered at the Special Olympics for many years. He married Jean M. Cooley in 1948 and she preceded him in death in 2004.
Ray is survived by his daughters: Connie Requarth Dr. William of Decatur, Anne Jurgens Larry of Lockport, and Carol Harper boyfriend, Robin Fuchs of Springfield; sons: Michael Harper Raquel of North Miami Beach, FL, Russell Harper Karen of Ramsey, Patrick Harper Debra of Decatur, and Edward Harper Dawn of Argenta. He is survived by ten grandchildren, several step-grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and several step-great grandchildren. He is also survived by a sister, Dorothy Meis of Decatur, and Uncle Mark Moran of Ohio.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 56 years; and son, Larry.
Funeral Liturgy will be 4 pm Wednesday, August 1, 2007, in Moran & Goebel Funeral Home. Visitation will be two hours before the service time. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery with Military Honors conducted by the Macon County Honor Guard. Memorial gifts may be made to: Special Olympics.
The family of Raymond R. Harper is being served by the Moran & Goebel Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2801 N. Monroe St. Decatur.
What’s your fondest memory of Raymond?
What’s a lesson you learned from Raymond?
Share a story where Raymond's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Raymond you’ll never forget.
How did Raymond make you smile?