Ruby Joyce Harper

Ruby Joyce Harper, a cherished mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on March 28, 1936, in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, Ruby's life was a testament to her loving, faith-filled, and selfless nature.

Ruby's early years in Alabama laid the foundation for a life of caring and service to others. She was the beloved daughter of Cleveland O. Wheat, Sr. and Ernestine Stillwell Wheat.  Her family was her pride and joy, including her children, Sherry Harper Lackey (Randy) and Michael Wayne Harper (Florence); her sister, Peggy Jane McManus; her brother, Cleveland O. Wheat, Jr.; her daughter-in-law, Stacey Harper; her four adoring grandchildren; and her cherished great-grandchild. Ruby was preceded in death by her parents; her father, Cleveland O. Wheat, Sr. and her mother, Ernestine Stillwell Wheat; her husband, Emory Vernon "Dink" Harper; her sons, Ricky Monroe Harper and Jeffrey Dale Harper; her brothers, James Monroe Wheat and Robert Sherrill Wheat; and her loyal canine companion, Tinker.

For over five decades, Mrs. Harper dedicated her life to caring for others as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in the Valley area. Her compassionate work extended from nursing homes to hospitals, and she provided in-home care with a gentle touch and a warm smile. Ruby's unwavering commitment to her patients earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues and the community alike.

Ruby's interests and hobbies were as rich and varied as her life. She was an exceptional cook, known for her ability to whip up an amazing meal from the simplest of ingredients. Her love for reading was profound, and she cherished the moments she could lose herself in a good book. Ruby's musical tastes were captured in her love for the Gaithers, and she found joy in walking her dog and indulging in the homestyle comforts of the Cracker Barrel.

In her leisure, Ruby's faith was a cornerstone of her existence. She lived by the words of Mother Teresa, "Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love." This quote was a reflection of Ruby's approach to life, as she found beauty and purpose in the everyday acts of kindness and care.

Ruby Joyce Harper's legacy is one of unwavering love and selfless service. Her memory will be held in the hearts of those who knew her, and her influence will continue to be felt through the countless lives she touched. She was a beacon of faith and the embodiment of love in action, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

As we bid farewell to Ruby, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a journey completed with grace. Her spirit, characterized by generosity and devotion, will forever inspire those she leaves behind. Ruby Joyce Harper's memory will be cherished, and her life celebrated, as we hold her close in our thoughts and prayers.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 21st, 2024, at 2:30 P.M. EDT at the Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home chapel with interment following in Shawmut Cemetery.  Visitation will be Wednesday evening from 6:00P.M. EDT until 8:00P.M. EDT.

Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to the American Heart Association, www.heart.org in her memory.

Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home directing.

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