JoAnn Harper

JoAnn Norlander Lamph Harper passed away at the age of 91 on January 28, 2026, in Santa Clara, Utah. JoAnn was born June 15, 1934 in Ogden, Utah a daughter of Jessie Doman and Fred Norlander. She grew up in Ogden, Utah and went to elementary through high school there. She attended Weber college for a short time until she married Melvin Lamph on October 17, 1952. They were married for 34 years and then divorced. They had four sons; Gary Keith, Mark B., Matthew Kris, and Gregory Scott. She is survived by three sons and 2 sisters, Gay Lynne Fleming of Farr West, Utah and Pat Rasband of Layton, Utah. Her son Gregory passed away in 1990. She has 9 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

JoAnn married Marvin E. Harper on December 6, 1986. Their marriage was solemnized in the Los Angeles temple. She was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and served in many callings such as Primary president and pianist, Ward Young Women’s president, Stake Young Women’s president, Ward Relief Society president, San Diego Temple worker and three stake missions.

JoAnn had many gifts. She was a talented artist and taught oil painting classes. She made jewelry, stained glass windows, and played the piano. She enjoyed the creativity of sewing especially when making many kinds of Cabbage Patch dolls. She also loved doing genealogy.

JoAnn was adventurous. She loved snow skiing, was a certified scuba diver, enjoyed going on ATV jamborees, and even started flight lessons. She traveled to many countries and felt fortunate to see many parts of the world. She liked to play WORD with friends to keep her mind keen and alert, and always stayed current on political events.

JoAnn endured many of life’s trials stoically, but kept her witty sense of humor.  In 1993 she was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and was frustrated with its crippling effects that slowed her from doing all of the things that she still wanted to do.

Graveside services will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Parowan City Cemetery, 834 Canyon Road, Parowan, UT 84761.