George Walter Harper, age 74 of Sumner, passed away unexpected Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at Lawrence County Memorial Hospital. He was born April 11, 1946 in Vincennes, IN to Joseph “Roy” Harper and his wife Bessie Hazel (Lewis) Harper.
On December 22, 1963, George married Jane A. Purcell in the Union Chapel United Methodist Church. They were married nearly 57 years. Together they raised two children and had many adventures.
George was a life-long member of the Union Chapel United Methodist Church. He owned and operated George Harper Trucking, pulled for Morgan Drive-Away, held multiple careers within the oil industry, and was a farmer.
He enjoyed his family, friends, and folks from the neighborhood. George and Jane spent a lot of time traveling in their camper. They visited every state except Hawaii and Alaska. Boating was another hobby of George’s. He traveled the Mississippi River and the Ohio River from Pittsburg to Evansville.
Surviving family includes: his wife of nearly 57 years- Jane A. Harper: one daughter- Julie Jo Harper Bates and husband Leroy of Sumner: one son- Stacy George Harper of Vincennes, IN: two sisters-in-law- Marcia Griffin and husband Andy of Olney and Janet Davis and husband Greg of Lawrenceville: three brothers-in-law- Brad Purcell and wife Dixie, Bruce Purcell and wife Gerri Kay, and Jeff Purcell all of Bridgeport: two grandchildren- Jessica Mendenhall and husband Caleb of Sumner and Joshua Hawkins of North Little Rock, AR: three great-grandchildren- Kaleigh and Jacob Mendenhall and Norah Hawkins: and nieces, nephews, and extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws.
Private services will be held for George’s family. A public celebration will be scheduled at a later date. Cunningham Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Memorial contributions can be made to Union Chapel United Methodist Church or the Diabetes Research Foundation. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.cunninghamfuneralhomes.com.