Bessie Harper

April 28, 1942 - April 3, 2016

Mrs. Bessie W. Harper, age 73, of Pearson passed away Sunday evening, April 3, 2016, at her residence following an extended illness. She was born April 28, 1942 to the late Charlton M. Williams and the late Millie Achord Williams. Mrs. Harper, a native of Wheeler County, had lived in the Coffee County area for many years. She retired from the Department of Family and Children’s Services, as a Social Worker. She and her husband had spent several years presenting Baptist Ministry throughout South Georgia. She enjoyed her husband, children, Grandchildren, friends, and other relatives, including her church family. She was also preceded in death by her First Husband, Samuel Daniel Douglas, and 1 Sister, Nina Alexander. She was a member of the Simple Church. Survivors include: Her Husband of 23 Years: Rev. Donald “Don” Harper of Pearson, Ga.; 3 Sons: Richard (Tammie) Douglas of Nicholls, Ga.; Donald (Lori) Harper of Bossier City, Louisiana, and Greg (Kristina) Harper of Alamogordo, New Mexico.; 3 Daughters: Elisabeth “Beth” Douglas of Gulf Breeze, Florida; Kristina Harper of Calera, Alabama, and Megan (Greg) Cook of St. Clairsville, Ohio.; 1 Brother: Charlton M. Williams, Jr. of Broxton, Ga.; 17 Grandchildren, including: Ryan Austin Douglas of Nicholls, Ga.; Brandon Dewayne Douglas of Douglas, Ga., Ashlee Brooke Shiver of Valdosta, Ga.; Aaron Drew Young of Pensacola, Florida, and Brittney Elgenfritz of Gulf Breeze, Florida. 5 Great Grandchildren Several Nieces, Nephews, Friends, and Other Relatives. Funeral Services were held Wednesday, April 6, 2016, at 11:00 A. M., at the Eastside Baptist Church, with Rev. William Pope and Rev. Don Harper officiating. A Special Eulogy was given by Ashlee Shiver. The Interment followed in the Roberts Cemetery, near Nicholls. Active Pallbearers were: Ryan Douglas, Brandon Douglas, Jacob Nobles, Shaughn Odum, Randy Alexander, and Keith Moore. Special Musical Selections, “The Anchor Holds”, was presented by the Soloist, John Kent, with CD Music, and “Holy Spirit You Are Welcome”, was presented by the Soloist, Sylvia James, with CD Music. “Pre-Lude” and “Post-Lude” soft hymns were rendered by the Pianist, Randy Braswell. Ricketson Funeral Home was in charge of the Arrangements.