“I have fought the good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” -2 Timothy 4:7
On this day, we celebrate and honor the life and legacy of our beloved Jean B. Harper, a woman whose life was marked by faith, service, and unwavering dedication to God, family, and community. Jean B. Harper was born on July 18, 1942, in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. She was the first of six children born to the late Waldorf and Nellie Blount. As the eldest, Jean naturally assumed a role of leadership, compassion, and responsibility—traits that would remain with her throughout her life.
Jean attended the public schools of Elizabeth City, North Carolina, and graduated from P.W. Moore High School. She continued her education at Elizabeth City State University (formerly Elizabeth City State Teachers College) in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, where she obtained her Associates Degree in Secretarial Science.
Jean was united in holy matrimony to John Wesly “Mickey” Harper, who preceded her in death. From this 60-year union, three children were born, and Jean devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family with love, guidance, and strength.
After relocating to Orangeburg, South Carolina, Jean began her professional career with The Middleton Insurance Agency, where she served diligently. She later joined Claflin University (formerly Claflin College), where she faithfully dedicated 51 years of service. Through her work, Jean became a respected and beloved figure whose professionalism, consistency, and mentorship positively impacted generations of students, faculty, and staff.
A woman of deep and abiding faith, Jean was a devoted member of Jerusalem United Methodist Church, now known as Edisto Fork United Methodist Church. Her service to the church was extensive and selfless. She served as a Sunday School Teacher, Church Secretary, President and Secretary of the United Methodist Women, President of the Usher Board, and a devoted member of the Gospel Choir. Jean’s faith was not only spoken; it was lived daily through her actions and service to others.
Jean was also an active member of the Zeta Amicae Auxiliary of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, where she faithfully served in leadership roles including President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Through this organization, she further demonstrated her commitment to service, sisterhood, and uplifting the community.
In addition to her professional and church commitments, Jean was deeply involved in numerous community organizations throughout Orangeburg and the surrounding areas. She was known as a straight-forward servant who gave freely of her time, wisdom, and resources, always seeking to support, encourage, and uplift those in need. Her humanitarian spirit and heart for service left a lasting impression on all who encountered her.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents, Waldorf and Nellie Blount; her brothers, Wayne Blount and Waldorf Blount; and her sister, Faye Blount Gattling.
Jean leaves to cherish her loving memory her children: Pamela H. (Kenneth) Bowman of Orangeburg, SC; Dwayne A. (Michele) Harper of Columbia, SC; and Deveron A. (Davette) Harper of Charlotte, NC; her brother, Larry (Barbara) Blount of Baltimore, MD; her sister, Bernice Blount of Rocky Mount, NC; six grandchildren; De’Kwami Bowman, Chauncery Bowman, Noah Harper, Harrison Harper, Monroe Harper, Graham Harper, and Niella Harper; seven greatgrandchildren; a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.
She also leaves to cherish her loving memory a very special daughter of the heart, Vivian Quattlebaum-Jones, of Charlotte, North Carolina, whose bond with Jean was one of deep love, devotion, and mutual respect.
Jean B. Harper’s life stands as a powerful testament to faith in action. Her enduring impact as a Christian servant, devoted family matriarch, dedicated educator, and compassionate humanitarian will long be remembered. Though she has completed her earthly journey, her legacy of love, service, and faith will continue to live on through the many lives she touched.

The service will proceed as follows: 

The viewing will be held on Friday, January 30,2026 at Glover's Funeral Home from 1:00pm until 8:00pm. 

A Wake Service will be held on Friday, January 30,2026 at Glover's Funeral Home from 6:00pm until 8:00pm. 

The funeral will be held on Saturday, January 31,2026 at Edisto Fork United Methodist Church 356 Lariot Rd. Orangeburg, SC beginning at 3:00pm.