1948
James
2024
James Charles Harper
December 21, 1948 — March 31, 2024
James Charles Harper (also known as Harper, JC, Charles, or Pinky) was called home by the Lord and passed away on March 31st, 2024 while surrounded by his loving family. He was a husband, as well as a generous and loving father and grandfather.
Charles was born on December 21, 1948 in Greenville, SC and was a son of the late James and Beatrice Harper. Charles was predeceased by his brothers Johnny, Jimmy, and Francis "PNUT'', as well as his sisters Elizabeth, Ann, Cherry Vonasdol, and Linda Mathis.
Charles served in the United States Army. He enlisted on June 26, 1968, and bravely fought in the Vietnam War until his honorable discharge on June 25, 1970. For his valor and dedication, he was awarded several commendations including an Expert Rifle Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star.
Following his time in the Armed Forces, Charles established a career in the textile and manufacturing industry. In his personal time, Charles had a passion for sports and fishing. He also loved watching NASCAR and studying history. He enjoyed watching old movies and had a deep appreciation for classic country music.
Charles is survived by his wife Kathleen Harper, their children Ray (Kasey) of Pickens, SC; Ferris Chappell (Matt) of Pickens, SC; and step children Zina Rakes, Ronnie Rakes, and Katrina Rakes. Charles was also a beloved grandfather to Graeson, Ayden, Ethan, and Lily Chappell. Among those also mourning his loss are his sisters Brenda Lewallen, June Gregory (Paul), Lynette Donaldson (Chuck), and Mary Harper along with many nieces and nephews.
Charles will be dearly missed and the memories of him cherished as his story lives on in the hearts of those who loved him.
A ceremony will be held at the M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans Cemetery.
Charles was born on December 21, 1948 in Greenville, SC and was a son of the late James and Beatrice Harper. Charles was predeceased by his brothers Johnny, Jimmy, and Francis "PNUT'', as well as his sisters Elizabeth, Ann, Cherry Vonasdol, and Linda Mathis.
Charles served in the United States Army. He enlisted on June 26, 1968, and bravely fought in the Vietnam War until his honorable discharge on June 25, 1970. For his valor and dedication, he was awarded several commendations including an Expert Rifle Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal with one Bronze Service Star.
Following his time in the Armed Forces, Charles established a career in the textile and manufacturing industry. In his personal time, Charles had a passion for sports and fishing. He also loved watching NASCAR and studying history. He enjoyed watching old movies and had a deep appreciation for classic country music.
Charles is survived by his wife Kathleen Harper, their children Ray (Kasey) of Pickens, SC; Ferris Chappell (Matt) of Pickens, SC; and step children Zina Rakes, Ronnie Rakes, and Katrina Rakes. Charles was also a beloved grandfather to Graeson, Ayden, Ethan, and Lily Chappell. Among those also mourning his loss are his sisters Brenda Lewallen, June Gregory (Paul), Lynette Donaldson (Chuck), and Mary Harper along with many nieces and nephews.
Charles will be dearly missed and the memories of him cherished as his story lives on in the hearts of those who loved him.
A ceremony will be held at the M.J. “Dolly” Cooper Veterans Cemetery.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James Charles Harper, please visit our flower store.
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