Gary Raynard Harper

Gary Raynard Harper, 77, of Heath Springs, South Carolina, peacefully departed this life at his home on Monday, March 23, 2026. Born on December 2, 1948, in Lancaster, SC, he was the beloved son of the late Herbert Harper Jr. and the late Willie Mamie Clyburn Harper.

He was united in holy matrimony to Della M. Harper, the true desire of his heart. Together, they built a life of love and devotion, and to this union, two children were born.

Gary was a proud 1967 graduate of Barr Street High School. He was a man of strong character and work ethic, dedicating many years of service to Springs Industries and later to the State Highway Department, from which he retired.

A man of unwavering faith, Gary was a dedicated member of Forward City Church. He found great peace in reading the Bible and was known for his compassionate phone ministry. He never met a stranger and truly enjoyed meeting new people.

Gary embraced life to the fullest. Whether hunting, fishing, enjoying a good meal, or basking in the sun outdoors, he moved through the world with appreciation. He was a gifted creator, often working with his hands to make beautiful things. His greatest passion was always his family; he enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. To know Gary was to love him, and he was deeply loved by many.

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted wife, Della M. Harper of Heath Springs, SC; one son, Gabriel Harper (Shnethia) of Goose Creek, SC; one daughter, Dana Harper of Heath Springs, SC; one sisters Adrienna Smith of Lancaster, SC,  and three brothers, Herman Harper of Columbia, SC, Sidney Harper (Lois) of Indian Land, SC, and Dudley Harper (Shelby) of Lancaster, SC. His legacy also lives on through his three grandchildren: Gabrielle Harper (Alexis) and Danielle Harper, both of Charleston, SC, and Arielle Harper of Charlotte, NC , god daughter, Rekeenya Toney ,  his special friend and cousin, Helen Mackey (Jackie); and a host of nieces, nephews,  and  brothers in law, David Cunningham Jr (Delois) of Chesapeake VA, Carl Cunningham of Buffalo NY, Vernon Cunningham (Beverly) of Heath Springs SC, John Cunningham and Artice Cunningham both of Heath Springs SC, Robert Drakeford of Heath Springs SC, Ronald Cunningham(Dorothy) and Larry Cunningham (Penny) of Knoxville TN, Sisters  in law ,Tempie Lee Alexander of Capital Heights MD, Catherine Huggins of Heath Springs SC

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Annetta Harper, and Margrietta Harper

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