Obituary of Richard Russell Harper

Richard Russell Harper passed away on Wednesday, January 19th, very unexpectedly of an illness. He was a wonderful husband to Betty Alice for 55 years. Richard was born in Jesup, Georgia, graduating from Wayne County High School, and attending Furman University on a football scholarship, graduating in 1966. He spent most of his working career at Liberty Life Insurance Company and retired from Liberty as Senior Vice President, Information Technology. He then joined American Heritage Life Insurance Company, now Allstate, in Jacksonville, Florida and retired from there as Chief Information and Technology Officer. An ardent supporter of Furman football, Richard was a past president and board member of the Furman Paladin Club. The Harpers are members of First Baptist Church of Greenville and of the Hope Sunday School class. Survivors include their children Russell and Jenny (Brandon), and two adorable granddaughters, Berit and Kylie. He is also survived by his brother Robert (Dianne) of Myrtle Beach and his brother-in-law Phil Baynes and his wife Julia of Fountain Inn. He was predeceased by his parents, Rita and James Lee Harper and a brother, James Adam Harper. Richard loved hiking and traveling, with Colorado and Amelia Island being two of his favorite places. He was a lifelong student and enjoyed attending Olli at Furman. He loved technology, and always wanted to learn more. Due to Covid concerns, a time of remembrance will be held at a later date. Memorials may be sent to First Baptist Church, 847 Cleveland Street, Greenville, SC 29601 or the Greenville Humane Society, 305 Airport Road, Greenville, SC 29607. www.fletcherfuneralservice.com