David W. Harper

David W. Harper, 83, of West Jefferson passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, in his home with his loving wife Liz by his side.

David is preceded in death by his parents Willis and Evelyn (Haynes) Harper, sister Carolyn Trentor, and sister-in-law Virginia Harper. David was born July 17, 1941, in Columbus, Ohio to the late Willis and Evelyn Harper. He was raised with a strong sense of hard work and faith, values he carried with him throughout his life.

After graduating from Hilliard High School in 1960, David soon went on to marry his high school sweetheart and love of his life Elizabeth Wolfe. Their love story spanned nearly 63 years, filled with shared dreams, deep dedication, and the kind of love and service that inspired their children and grandchildren. Together David and Liz raised four children.

David is survived by his beloved wife and best friend Liz. Their children David R. (Cheri Smyers) Harper; Susan E. (Matt) Higgins; Joy (Jason) Phillips; Edward W. (Ashli Stonerock) Harper. Grandchildren Dillon (Katie Sayre) Harper; Kassidy (Richard) Hawke; Lexi Higgins; Laine Higgins; Madi (Aj) Murry; Macy (Joey Telatko) Phillips; Logan Harper; Tristan and Taylor Stonerock. Great-grandchildren Kyla, Destin and Kobi Harper, Lizzie and Andi Murry, Joey Telatko. Siblings Gene Harper, Chuck (Carol) Harper, Janet (Mike) Humphrey, sister-in-law Gloria (Gary) Young, and many nieces and nephews. 

Liz, David’s cheerleader and beloved wife was central to his happiness and success. She was by his side through every season of life. David started his career as a police officer for the city of Hilliard. During his time as a police officer, he was recognized as The Franklin County Suburban Officer of the Year. He also served as Safety Director for the City of Hilliard. David served on the Hilliard City Council as president and representative to the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission. His career in law enforcement and security led him to his 38 year career in banking security and retired as a senior vice president. His Community service included serving as a member of The Jefferson Local School Board of Education for over 20 years where he served as president and vice president. David also served as a board member on the Tolles Career and Technical Center Board of Education. He was a member of the West Jefferson Athletic Boosters for over 40 years and served as treasurer and president. He was voted West Jefferson Football Fan of the Year, Wrestling Fan of the Year, West Jefferson Booster of the Year, and Grand Marshall of the West Jefferson Ox Roast Parade in addition to being inducted into the West Jefferson Athletic Hall of Fame. David received numerous other awards and recognition for his 40-plus years of community service that he deeply enjoyed. David was a member of the Voyagers Sunday school class at Cypress Church. He was also a member of the Avery Lodge 493 F & AM.

Outside of David’s professional life, he found joy in raising ducks, geese, rabbits, and coy fish, activities he enjoyed with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed flower gardening with Liz. His home was his sanctuary where he enjoyed welcoming friends and family. David will always be remembered for his commitment to serving God, his family, and his community in addition to the wisdom he shared with all who knew and loved him. His presence will be deeply missed but his legacy of service and faithful love will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know and love him.

Visitation will be held on THURSDAY, January 23, 2025, from 4:00pm-7:00pm, at the Rader-McDonald-Tidd Funeral Home, 1355 W. Main Street, West Jefferson, Ohio, 43162. Funeral Service will be held at the Funeral Home on FRIDAY, January 24, 2025, at 11:00am, with Pastor Dale George officiating. Burial will follow at Big Darby Cemetery, Plain City, Ohio. 

In Lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution in David's memory to: West Jefferson Athletic Boosters, 1 Roughrider Drive, West Jefferson, Ohio, 43162.