James Harper Obituary

Mr. James Nichols "Jimmy, Dad, Pop" Harper, Jr., age 94, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, in Salisbury. d. Born January 9, 1931, in Cambridge, Maryland, Jimmy lived a long and fulfilling life rooted in faith, family, and the land he loved. Jimmy graduated from Hurlock High School in 1947. It was during those formative years that he met

Irene Moxey, who would become his lifelong partner. The two graduated together and were married on February 13, 1951 after which they established a home in Rhodesdale. Their union spanned an extraordinary 74 years-a testament to enduring love and shared purpose.

A devoted husband and father, Jimmy is survived by his beloved wife Irene Moxey Harper and their five children: James Edward Harper (Karen) of Rhodesdale, John Charles Harper (Joan) of Seaford, Susan Harper Anthony (Jeff) of Queenstown, Thomas William Harper (Kim) of East New Market, and Marian Lea Harper Windsor (John) of East New Market. His legacy continues through his 13 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother William Alpheus Harper (Peggy), along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edna Louise Philips Harper and James Nichols Harper, Sr.

Jimmy was a lifelong farmer whose hands shaped the soil of Maryland's Eastern Shore for decades. With dedication and pride, he cultivated cantaloupe, potatoes, sweet potatoes, asparagus, rhubarb, crown vetch, horse radish, Belgian endive, watermelon, soybeans, barley, wheat, tomatoes, cucumbers, beach grass, sweet corn, field corn, peppers-and more-nurturing not only crops but also a deep connection to the land. Farming wasn't just a livelihood for Jimmy; it was a calling that reflected his values of hard work and stewardship.

Beyond the fields, Jimmy found joy in simple pleasures: shooting pool and playing cards at the local pool hall; watching his children and grandchildren compete in basketball, baseball, and softball; horseback riding across open pastures; savoring hearty farm meals; reading the local newspaper; and sharing stories-always laced with humor or a lesson learned. He had a gift for storytelling that brought people together and passed down wisdom from one generation to the next. A man of deep Christian faith who loved Jesus dearly, Jimmy lived out his beliefs through kindness and humility. He cherished his community as much as he did his family. To those who asked how they could honor him after his passing, Jimmy would simply say: Have faith, show kindness, and be humble."

Mr. James Nichols Harper Jr.'s life was one of purpose-rooted in love for God, family ties that spanned generations, friendships forged over decades of shared stories and laughter-and an unwavering devotion to the land beneath his feet. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

A visitation will be held on May 23, 2025, from 09:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Secretary where the funeral service will be held at at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Pallbearers: Craig Harper, JP Anthony, Kyle Harper (Honorary), Robbie Windsor, Jacob Windsor, and Josh Harper. A celebration of life and meal will be held at the church hall after the burial.

Arrangements are in the care of Zeller Funeral Home in East New Market.