Mary Ruth Harper

Mrs. Harper entered into eternal rest on December 2, 2020. She was the oldest of three siblings born to the late Wesley and Lillie Mae (Heyward) Quattlebaum of Cordova, SC. Her siblings George Quattlebaum (Bessie) and William Quattlebaum (Mary) preceded her in death.

She was married to the late Tommy C. Harper for 69 years. From their union, they were blessed with two children, Lillie Bell (the late Jacob Irick) and John (Mickey) W. (Jean) Harper.

Mrs. Harper received her former education from the Old Field Public School. She earned a certificate from the Quilting School in Cope, SC and her certification as a midwife from the Midwife Institution in Beaufort, SC.

As a loyal woman of God, Mrs. Harper displayed attributes of dedication and love to her family, friends and community. As an entrepreneur (café owner), she provided excellent meals, employment and from her annual harvest she provided fruits, vegetables and baked goods to members of the community and surrounding areas. She was a midwife for various communities and delivered over 275 babies. She also was a beautician, and she had a passion for caring for the sick. Her work ethics were impeccable and a great example for one to follow.

Mrs. Harper was a faithful member and Mother of Edisto Fork United Methodist Church (the former Jerusalem United Methodist Church). She was also a member of the Senior Choir, Sons and Daughters of Job and United Methodist Women. She was always willing to work with other organizations.

She is survived by her daughter, Lillie Bell Irick and son John (Mickey)(Jean) Harper both of Orangeburg. Nine grandchildren: Jacqueline I. Thomas, Michelle M. Irick, Kelvin (Dena) Irick all of Orangeburg; Pamela H. (Kenneth) Bowman and Deveron (Davette) Harper both of Charlotte, NC; Dwayne (Michelle) Harper of Columbia, SC; Rosita L. and Gwendolyn L. Irick of Manassas, VA; and Valencia L. Walker of Upper Marlboro, MD; 14 grandchildren; and eight great great-grandchildren.

As the Matriarch of the Harper and Quattlebaum families, we salute Mrs. Mary Ruth Harper for her love, grace, wisdom and leadership. Her life…Her Works…Her Legacy…Lives On!

Her motto: “If I can help somebody, as I pass along, then my living shall not be in vain.”

The service will proceed as follows:

The viewing will be held on Wednesday, December 9,2020 at Glover's Funeral Home at 12:00pm until 7:00pm. 

The funeral will be held on Thursday, December 10,2020 at Edisto Fork United Methodist Church beginning at 11:00am. 

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