Mildred Harper

Mildred Hilda Ritter Harper departed this life and entered into eternal rest at her home on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. She was born in Allendale County, SC to the late Catherine (Tilley) Ritter and Sass P. Ritter. Mildred attended school in Allendale County, SC. She later moved to New Haven, CT. She was married to the late Bishop Paul Harper, Jr. Together they had seven children. Mildred had various jobs over the course of her professional career. She worked at several companies including Seamless Rubber Co., Eaton Factory Co. and she was the supervisor of housekeeping at The Holiday Inn. She also worked at various restaurants including Denny's. Mildred retired at the age of 72. Mildred had a strong spiritual background. She was a member of Pitts Chapel UFWB Church where she served on the usher board and choir. She remained very active in the church until leaving in 1969 to assist her husband, the late Bishop Paul Harper, Jr., in founding the Uprising Freewill Baptist Church. Mildred was one of the regional members of the First Calvary Baptist Church were she served on the Mother's Board. Mildred was a pillar in the community. She always looked for the good in everyone. She loved the Lord and she was a very loving and supportive wife and mother. She always challenged her children to be the best at what God instilled in them. Her main focus in life was God, family and being a provider. She truly loved her family. When her husband passed away in September of 1983, Mildred learned how to drive because she did not want to be a burden to anyone. She was a very independent person. Her first vehicle was a white Cadillac. Mildred also loved to cook and would feed anyone in need. She leaves behind to cherish her memory, 4 sons, Anthony Mark (Vashtye), Jerome (Linda), Keith (Yolanda) and Michael (Ruby); 15 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; and 2 great great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Bishop Paul Harper, Jr.; a daughter, Brenda Lee Harper Potts; 2 sons, Paul Harper III and Elyoue Harper; her parents, Sass Ritter and Catherine Tilley Ritter; and siblings, Blanche, Claudia, Mabel, Ernest, Rotha and Warren.