VERNON RICHARD HARPER

Vernon Richard Harper, 87, of Monett passed away on Sunday, March 10, 2024, while at Cox South Hospital in Springfield. He was born on Oct. 4, 1936, in Hastings, Okla., the son of the late Richard Hamilton Harper and Verna T. (Conley) Harper.
He graduated from Ukiah High School in Ukiah, Calif. with the class of 1954. He served his country proudly in the United States Army Reserves and was a mechanic for most of his working years.
On April 20, 1955, he married Opal Foster in Carson City, Nev. and together they raised five children.
He is survived by his sons, Robert Harper, of Monett, Randy “John” Harper of Cassville, and Tom Cannon, of Marionville; two brothers, Robert and Ken Harper; one sister, Jana Devon (Lee) Sisco of Atlantic, Iowa; 16 grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Opal; his son, Richard Harper; and his daughter, Melody Powers.
Graveside services were held on Monday, March 18, at the I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Monett with Pastor Melvin Hap Anders officiating. A celebration of life service will be held from 3-5 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, at Buchanan Funeral Home with a family gathering to follow.