James F. Harper

James Franklin Harper, known affectionately as Jim to his friends and loved ones, passed away with his loving family by his side on December 14, 2025, in Superior Township, Michigan. Born on November 23, 1934, in Muncie, Indiana, to the late James A. and Ethel M. Harper, Jim's life was marked by a profound dedication to education, a love for his family, and a passion for the pursuit of knowledge.
Jim's journey through life was one of joy and companionship, especially highlighted by his marriage to Carol (Mannor) Harper on August 20, 1960. Their love story began on a lively night in April when they both ventured out dancing with friends and fatefully met at a bar. Their connection was immediate, and they wasted no time in solidifying their bond, marrying just four months after their first encounter.
A devoted husband and father, Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Carol, and their daughter, Lisa (Brian) Sanders. Though he was the last surviving sibling, having been predeceased by David Harper, Evelyn Evans, Frances Erbacher, and Hazel Harper, his memory lives on through numerous nieces and nephews who will forever cherish their uncle's wisdom and gentle spirit.
Jim's professional life was as an educator in the Wayne-Westland school district at Wayne Memorial High School. With a background as an English major, he demonstrated remarkable versatility and dedication by teaching mathematics, a subject he approached with the same passion and rigor that characterized his entire career.
A man of quiet disposition but immense intellect, Jim's curiosity was boundless. He relished the world of trivia, possessing a vast repository of knowledge that made him the go-to person for explanations on nearly any topic. His ability to explain complex concepts with ease was a gift that benefited many.
Jim's interests were as diverse as they were profound. He found joy in music, playing his dulcimer and keyboard with a heartfelt enthusiasm that transcended proficiency. College basketball held a special place in his heart, with a particular fondness for Indiana teams that reflected his roots.
In his younger years, Jim was an avid tennis player and swimmer, activities that reflected his appreciation for physical fitness and the outdoors. After retiring, he and Carol embraced the world of travel, exploring various cultures and landscapes with an insatiable zest for new experiences.
Language learning was another of Jim's pursuits, and his intellectual appetite led him to study numerous languages, among which he became proficient in Chinese. This skill was not just a personal triumph but also a bridge to understanding and connecting with more of the world's people.
Jim Harper's life was a testament to the enduring power of love, the quest for knowledge, and the impact one dedicated individual can have on the lives of many. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched with his teaching, his kindness, and his unwavering sense of integrity.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Salvation Army or St. Michael Lutheran Church Wayne.