Jimmy Ray Harper, 80, of Benton, Kentucky, passed away on Monday, April 14, 2025, at his home.
Jimmy was born on July 1, 1944, in Possom Trot, Kentucky, to the late Raymond Lay Harper and Thelma Grace Clark Harper. He graduated from North Marshall High School in 1962 and attended Murray State College. He also proudly served in the United States Army. He was employed by GAF, which later became ISP and Ashland, as a Boiler Operator for 49 years and retired in 2014. Jimmy was known for his contagious smile and willingness to do anything for a friend or stranger. He was always up for a good time and loved his many Harleys. Taking long road trips alongside his good buddies was one of his favorite things to do. Just a few trips were to the Florida Keys, the Badlands, Nova Scotia, and many more. He also loved music and going to concerts. Jimmy was a member of Twin Lakes Baptist Church and the Marshall County Elks Lodge #2707. He loved participating in the "Toys for Tots" poker run every year. Because of his military background and community support, in 2019, Governor Andy Beshear awarded Jimmy the prestigious honor of Kentucky Colonel. To this day, Jimmy's certificate is proudly displayed in his home. Later in life, he loved his hummingbirds, wildlife watching, gardening, and maintaining his 4 acres.
He is survived by his daughter, Gina Rae Harshman (Tony) of Paducah; two sons, David Mitchell Harper (Jennifer) of Houston, Texas and Joshua Clark Harper (Brandy) of Murray; his three sisters, Patricia Robinson, Christina DeFaria (Greg) and Sheila Garrett (Bob) all of Reidland; Loving girlfriend, Kim Shepperd; six grandchildren, Nikki Harshman, Alex Harshman, Chase Harshman, Katie Harper, Madison Lehde, and Cameron Harper; and two great-grandchildren, Everleigh and Maverick Lehde.
He was preceded in death by one grandson, Mason Harper; and his parents, Raymond Lay Harper and Thelma Grace Clark Harper.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to the Marshall County Elks Lodge #2707, 97 Kashway Lane, Benton, KY 4025, or the American Cancer Society
.A memorial visitation to celebrate Jimmy's life will be held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 pm on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at the Life Celebration Center of Filbeck-Cann, 1003 Poplar Street, Benton, KY 42025.
Jimmy's favorite saying is "Every day is a good day". We should all remember this quote.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit www.filbeckandcann.com
