Joseph John Frederick Harper born July 27, 1940, passed peacefully April 5, 2026 at St. Joseph’s Hospital with loving family by his side. He was married for 53 wonderful years to the late Linda Pelli Harper.

Affectionately known as "Sonny" by family and friends, the early years of his life were spent at the Brown Farm (current day Mayfair) before his father built their family home just off of Hayners Creek. Sonny attended Sacred Heart School, Benedictine Military School, and graduated from Armstrong State College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. He served his country proudly in the United States Army from 1959 to 1962 and was honorably discharged at the rank of Specialist E5. In addition, he helped to positively influence many young lives while employed at the Chatham County Juvenile Court where he held many roles over his 35+ year career.

He was a devoted husband, loving father, beloved grandfather, caring brother, respected supervisor, talented craftsman, avid sports fan, encouraging coach, world traveler, and devout Catholic at St. James Church.

Sonny will be greatly missed by family and friends. He was a living example of integrity and compassion in action. The calm strength and kindness Sonny demonstrated throughout his life leaves a legacy of his unconditional love for all.

Sonny was preceded in death by his father Bernard William Harper, Sr.; mother Mary Von Waldner Harper; brother Bernard Harper Jr (Buzzy); sister Isabelle Fields; sister Frances Wheeler; brother-in-laws Arthur Fields, Pete Monti; Terrence Pelli (Terry); Elbert Brown (Chuck) and sister-in-law Frances Pelli. He is survived by his daughter Heather Harper & partner John Crewdson; son Joseph Harper Jr (Josey) & partner Megan Swany; grandson Owen Harper and granddaughter Ellie Harper; sister Elise Monti; brother-in-law David Wheeler; brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws James Pelli Jr (Jimmy) & Barbara; Regina Pelli Brennan (Gina) & James; Joseph Pelli (Dicky); Mary Pelli Horton & Steve; Julie Pelli Rodewolt & Neal; John Pelli & Cherie; Susan Pelli Brown (Susie); and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Fox & Weeks, Hodgson Chapel.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 10, 2026 at St.James Catholic Church. Burial will follow in the Catholic Cemetery.

Flowers or donations are welcome. Sonny always had a warm-heart for the youth and those suffering. Please send donations to St. Jude at https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?px=9196902&fr_id=154020&pg=personal