Mr. Howard. L. " Buck" Harper Jr.

On June 4, 1937, God breathed the gift of life into Howard Lewis Harper Jr., affectionately known as “Buck”. He was the first born to the late Howard Sr. and Charlie Mae Harper. Both parents, an adoring sister Mildred Harper and loving brothers Jerome Harper and Odell Shaw preceded him in death. Howard was educated in the DeKalb County School System until he was drafted into the United States Navy where he proudly served his country. On June 29th 1958, Howard married the only love of his life, Allene Smith Harper which he pursued since the 4th grade. To this union of 57 years, two children were born, Vance L. Harper and Dejee’ M. Mercier. Howard loved the Lord and at an early age he joined the Union Baptist Church of Lithonia Georgia. He later joined Big Miller Grove Missionary Baptist Church where he diligently served until his health failed. Among the many capacities he served in were Sunday School Superintendant, Deacon Board, Male Chorus, Boy Scouts, Couples Ministry, Juvenile Home Ministry and Finance Committee. Howard was a very hard working man and excellent provider. He worked for many years at Dart Container Corp., several trucking companies and retired from Lithonia Lighting Acuity Brands after 51 years of dedicated service. Howard was best known for his kind and giving heart and his mentoring spirit. He always had positive and encouraging words aiming to lead our youth in the right direction. Howard leaves to cherish the memories of his legacy, his dedicated and loving wife who believed in their vows, “In sickness and in health until death do us part” Allene S. Harper; his two beloved children; son, Vance L. Harper (Wendy); daughter, Dejee M. Mercier (Marvin); six grandchildren, Markiyas Lockhart (Sharaye); Myyah Lockhart (Cecilia); Morey Lockhart (Ashley); Nicholas Harper, Jade Harper and Mikayla Green. Eight great grandchildren, Christopher Lockhart, Rashad Lockhart, Alicia Lockhart, Eddie Lockhart, Elijah Lockhart, Ena Green, Jeremiah Lockhart and A’laiah Lockhart. Two brothers; Phillip Harper (Chris) and Ricky Harper (Tammy); two sisters, Eloise Harris and Peggy Benton (Howard); two brother in laws; Felton Smith (Ruth) and Leonzie Smith (Catherine); One sister in law; Nellie Johnson; two aunts; Mozelle Hicks and Lois Scales and a host of other relatives and friends. A very special thank you goes to Morey Lockhart (grandson) for always being there to take care of his granddaddy. Special thanks to the Crossroads Hospice team and Senior Connections; Special caregiver Lisa Robinson; Dedicated servants; Min. Edward Totten, Dea.Larry Sulter, Bro. Andrew Bernett, Jimmy L. Freeman, Eddie Pass and Emma Shaw (cousin). Special thanks goes to Peggy Haper (sister) and Connie Mitchell (cousin) who worked tirelessly day and night to give of themselves for this family.

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Mr. Howard. L. " Buck" Harper Jr.

June 4, 1937 - September 20, 2015