Charles E. Harper

Charles Eugene Harper, 80, of Johnston City, passed away on Wednesday, August 27,

2025 at S.I.H. Herrin Hospital. Charles was a loving husband, father, uncle, and grandfather.

Charles, along with his wife Shirley, owned and operated Harper Feed Mill in Herrin, IL., since 1984. Charles had worked the Feed Mill for over 60 years. He started working there shortly after his father bought the store in 1957. He enjoyed visiting and helping all who came into the store. He loved helping others and sharing his wisdom with everyone who came in.

Charles was a follower of Jesus. He lived out his faith as a member of the First United Methodist Church in Herrin. He was an active member of the Methodist Men's Club, T & T Sunday School Class, served on multiple committees, and ushered for many years at the church. He would step up to serve whenever he saw a need. He was also a former president and a member of the Herrin Lions Club. Charles was active in KIAM and IRBA Rabbit clubs. If Charles wasn't working or with his family, he was with his rabbits. He enjoyed gardening and spending time on the farm.

Charles will be missed by his family, friends, and all who came through the store. He loved to share his stories with anyone who would listen.

Charles was born July 24, 1945, in Johnston City to Dow & Myrtle (Cash) Harper.

Charles married Shirley Grimes on March 24, 1967, at the First United Methodist Church in Herrin.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley Harper of Johnston City, IL; daughters and sons-in-law, Sherry & Todd Smedshammer of Herrin, IL, Cindy & Joseph Kovasity of Oxford, MI, and Wendy Sue &; Sean Carrell of Paducah, KY; grandchildren, Abigail Kovasity, Maxwell Kovasity, Harper Smedshammer, Quinn Smedshammer, Arianna Carrell, Aiden Carrell, and Oliver Carrell; and niece and nephew.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, James R. "Bud" Harper and Jerry D. Harper.

Funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Meredith-Waddell Funeral Home in Herrin with Rev. Stephanie Voss officiating. Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at the funeral home. Interment will be at Herrin City Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to SICF and put Charles Harper in the memo line. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.