Robert Dayton Harper

Robert Dayton Harper Our beloved husband and father, Robert D. Harper, passed away on Thursday, March 4, 2010, after a brief battle with cancer. Born in Kansas City, Kansas, Robert was the fifth child of six siblings. He married his wife, Mary Ann LaVonne Dean, on February 14, 1962 and together they reared four children. Robert devoted 28 years to the United States Air Force, serving and defending his country as a soldier and security police officer. SMSgt Harper retired as the Superintendent of Security Police at Bergstrom AFB in 1982. Robert and his family experienced living in various countries across the world. After a brief employment at the Del Valle Correctional Facility, he worked for the U.S. Post Service for 16 years. His military comrades, co-workers and family can attest to his impeccable work ethic. Robert's personal appearance and professionalism were above reproach. Robert will be remembered as a loving husband and dedicated father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He enjoyed working in the yard, traveling, and spending time with his grandchildren. Robert had a passion for music. He loved to dance, sing and listen to good music. He was generous to his family and friends. He made regular contributions to casinos across the United States. Robert had a great sense of humor and a caring heart. Robert is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 48 years, Mary Ann LaVonne Harper; his son, Kelly Harper (and wife, Carol); and three daughters: Robbie Fisher (and husband, Tony), April Greene (Cornell) and Angela Green (Talib). Also cherishing their memories of Robert are his two sisters, Jaunice Jones and Juanita Dixon; five sisters-in-law ( Linda Harper, Tollie Mae Dean, Johnnie Mae Johnson, Joyce Ann Bailey, Rosa Dean); four brothers-in-law ( Nathaniel Dean, Richard Dean, James Johnson, Ralph Murray, Sr.); seven grandchildren and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Robert was preceded in death by his parents, James and Carrie Harper; three brothers, James Jr., Nathaniel and Ralph Harper; and sister, Jearline Harper-Orme. Friends who wish to pay their respects and sign his guestbook may do so from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, March 12, at All Faiths Funeral Home located at 8507 N. IH-35 in Austin, Texas. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, March 12, 2010 at the Tabernacle of Praise, 3605 Adelphi Lane, Austin, Texas. SMSgt Robert Harper's military committal is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 15, 2010, at the Central Texas State Veteran's Cemetery in Killeen, Texas. Psalm 23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me: thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.