Terry Harper

Terrance "Terry" Harper passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025 surrounded by loving family at the age of 78. Terry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. Terry is survived by his wife Diana, Son Michael (Alex) and granddaughter Bella Harper, brother Dean Harper, Sisters-in-laws Mary Melms, Linda Bond and Lola May. Terry also leaves behind nieces, nephews, family and friends. Terry was preceded in death by his mother Wanda Lee Wilson (Charlie) and sister Beverly Klein.

Terry was born June 29, 1947 in Pontiac MI, to Weldon Harper and Wanda Lee Hall. He graduated from Brandon High School in 1965. Terry was a Vietnam Veteran and proudly served in the U.S. ARMY. He attended OCS and was honorably discharged. Terry married and was blessed with his son, Michael.

Terry later met his wife Diana and after 8 years of dating they married and enjoyed the next 33 wonderful years as best friends and soul mates.

Terry spent 15 years in the grocery business before going to work in sales and then sales manager. As Terry did in all aspects of his life, he devoted himself to doing his job with passion, kindness, honor and integrity. He retired after 39 years and continued to enjoy life to the fullest. He loved to golf, shoot pool and in earlier years, enjoyed hunting. As Terry's favorite singer Frank Sinatra sings in his favorite song "I did it my way" and Terry truly did do it his way!

Terry was a devoted lifetime member of Clawson-Troy Elks #2169 for over 38 years. Terry was best known for hosting Karaoke every Saturday for most of those 38 years. You could count on Terry to greet you with his signature "Good Morning" no matter the time of day. He was also a proud member of the American Legion and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. In the words of his favorite closing Karaoke song "I hate to leave you, but I really must say - Oh goodnight sweetheart goodnight!"

Family will receive friends Thursday, August 28, 2025 from 3-8PM with a 7PM Elks Lodge of Sorrows Service at A.J. Desmond & Sons (Price Chapel), 3725 Rochester Road (between Big Beaver & Wattles), Troy, (248) 689-0700.

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, October 5, 2025 at the Clawson-Troy Elks Lodge #2169, 2549 Elliott Avenue, Troy. The time is currently pending, please check back for further updates.

In lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made to Tunnel to Towers, Veterans Returning Home, or a charity of your choice.