Kerry Lyn Harper passed away on Wednesday, June 22nd in Springfield, Missouri at the age of 62.  He was preceded in death by his parents, James Noel and Mary Naomi Harper, and his brother Forrest Harper.  He was survived by his sisters Vanetta Peters, Nelda Belcher, and Vonna Gifford, his brother Kevin, as well as a large, loving extended family. 

Kerry was a proud Ozarkian who strove to honor his family history.  He was a passionate amateur historian, gathering extensive notes and photographs to track his lineage for many generations.  A talented gardener, he developed knowledge of local flora and landscaped with them to great effect.  He was an avid outdoorsman and craftsman, embodying the spirit of a Missouri long past, from his elaborate woodworking skills to his iconic shoulder-length beard.  Kerry was one with the hills, the guardian of a beautiful past.  He will be sorely missed.

Those who wish to honor Kerry with a donation may direct their funds to the White River Valley Historical Society, found at http://wrvhs.org/