Paul Ray Harper

The Rev. Paul Ray Harper, age 78, of Turtletown, went home to be with his Lord Monday, July 20, 2020, at his home. 

He was born April 1, 1942, in Murphy, North Carolina, to the late George “Garland” Harper and Juanita Lucille Turner Harper. 

The Rev. Harper was a minister at Zion Hill Baptist Church in Blairsville, Georgia, for 11 and one half years, Turtletown Baptist Church for 29 years and Pleasant Hill (River Hill) Baptist Church in Murphy, North Carolina for six years. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam Conflict. The Rev. Harper loved the Lord, helping others and to garden. He was involved in the jail ministry in both Fannin County and Polk County. The Rev. Harper was preceded in death by a brother, Billy Garland Harper.

Survivors are his wife of 54 years, Patricia Harper of Turtletown; son and daughter-in-law, Chris and Brandy Harper of Turtletown; daughter and son-in-law, Kelly and the Rev. Josh Ledford of Hiwassee Dam, North Carolina; four grandchildren, Justin and Haley Harper and Jamison and Ally Ledford; several nieces, nephews, numerous cousins, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were conducted Thursday, July 23, 2020, from the Turtletown Baptist Church with the Rev. Brad Ledford and the Rev. Josh Ledford officiating. Music was by Janice Reid. Interment followed in the Turtletown Baptist Church cemetery. Pallbearers were Justin Harper, Brian Ledford, Robin Stiles, Randy Collins, David Goode and Tim McArthur. 

For those desiring, contributions may be made to The Gideons International, P.O. Box 1375, Blue Ridge, Georgia, 30513. 

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.akinsfuneralhome.com. 

Akins Funeral Home of Copperhill was in charge of the arrangements.