Doris Sue Harper

Doris Sue Harper
January 21, 1928 – November 1, 2024

Doris Sue Harper, affectionately known as "Mom" and "Granny," peacefully entered into eternal rest, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and unwavering faith. Born to Lilah Mae and Solon Earl Wyatt on January 21, 1928, in Marshall County, Kentucky, Doris was the eldest of four, a protective and loving sister to Gerry Scott, James Earl Wyatt, and Mickey Tyree.

At the age of 19, she married the love of her life and her high school sweetheart, Lawrence “Buddy” Harper, beginning a beautiful journey together that would span fifty years. Doris pursued her passion for beauty and style, attending beauty school and eventually opening her own salon, Doris Sue’s Beauty Shop, where she shared her warmth and laughter with her clients. Later, she worked alongside Dr. Carpenter and Dr. Sells at local dental offices, always bringing her unique blend of kindness and professionalism to the workplace.

Doris was more than a dedicated worker; she was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She and Buddy raised two children, Douglas (Martha) Harper and Darla (Danny) Ham, nurturing them with love, resilience, and a sense of adventure. Her family continued to grow, filling her life with pride and fulfillment through seven grandchildren—Todd Harper (Stacy), Stacey Lutz (Clint), Bryan Harper (Cheryl), Megan Dempsey (Josh), Lindsey Williams (AJ), Dean Harper (Terza), and Mallory Carnes (Will)—and 15 great-grandchildren, who were her greatest delight: Taylor Harper, Jon Harper, Maggie Lutz, Mollie Lutz, Wyatt Dempsey, Emma Harper, Brynleigh Dempsey, Sky Lutz, Colton Harper, Max Lutz, Noah Carnes, Meadow Harper, Phoenix Harper, Anderson Carnes, and Phineas Dempsey.

An active member of Benton Church of Christ, Doris found joy in serving others and sharing her faith. Known for being there anytime the doors were open, she loved attending her Ladies Bible Study, serving at the fellowship meals, assisting with committees, and could cut a cake with unmatched precision. She brought a kind word or a cheerful laugh wherever she served.

Doris was a steadfast fan of the UK Wildcats, the St. Louis Cardinals, and the Marshall County Marshals, cheering with the same fierce loyalty she showed her loved ones. Her warmth, enthusiasm, and adventurous spirit will live on in all who knew her. From her days of sewing, water skiing, and camping to her later years of traveling, cheering on her teams, and playing cards and dominoes with friends, Doris lived life with passion and an open heart. She loved participating in many community events, including the Marshall County Senior Olympic Games—but only if they didn’t conflict with a little league game or school program. Supporting her grandchildren brought her the greatest happiness, and she was their proudest fan.

Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing that she is now reunited with her beloved Buddy; her sister, Gerry, and brother, James; her parents, Lyla and Solon; and so many dear friends. She has received her Heavenly reward and is at peace with the Lord. Her legacy lives on in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who will carry forward the lessons of love, loyalty, and compassion that she embodied every day.

Doris’s family invites all who knew her to join in a celebration of her life at 1:00 pm at Benton Church of Christ on Monday, November 4, 2024 with Bro. Doug Lyles officiating. Burial will follow at Fooks Cemetery.

Visitation will begin at 11:00 am until 1:00 pm service time on Monday, November 4, 2024 at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Western Kentucky Youth Camp, 301 Youth Camp Rd., Marion, KY 42064 or by going online to https://cwngui.campwise.com/Apps/OnlineGuestDonations/OGD.html a place especially dear to Doris. Leading her family spiritually was one of her life missions, and WKYC is a special place to so many whom she loves.

May her memory forever be a blessing, as she was to all who knew her.