Obituary of Helen Elleda Willard Harper

Helen Willard Harper, 87, went to be with our Lord on Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019. She died at her home with her surviving husband, Floyd Isom Harper, Jr. of West Columbia. She was born in Helena, Arkansas, the daughter of the late Walter Bond Willard and Coma (Cole) Willard. Helen had one sister, Patricia Willard Kennedy (Jack) who preceded her death. They just celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary on April 2nd. She also is survived by their children all in the Columbia area:  Helen “Lendy” Krantz (Gary), Floyd Isom Harper, III, and Patricia “Bit” Graham. Helen and Floyd were blessed with seven beloved grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Helen was a graduate of Duke University. She taught English and History prior to having a family. She continued teaching in Sunday School and working with Girl Scouts. Helen was a consummate homemaker. She loved to cook, sew, knit, and crochet. Her intricate works of handmade knitted afghans, sweaters, dresses, scarves, etc. won Grand Prizes and Blue Ribbons at the South Carolina State Fair.

She was very passionate about history and civic responsibility. Helen worked with her husband to build their business, April Tax Service.  One way Helen served her community was by her participation in local elections as the Westover Acres Poll Manager for thirty plus years.

Helen also was loved by her animals, especially her cats. She was known in the West Columbia area for nursing stray and wild animals back to health, including wild rabbits and squirrels. Her backyard is the perfect habitat for birds, squirrels, hummingbirds, etc.  She will be remembered for her countless “pet” stories.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Helen Harper’s honor to Student Ministries Scholarship Program at First Baptist Church of Columbia, 306 Hampton Street, Columbia, SC 29201.

Helen’s life will be celebrated in a private memorial service at Woodridge Memorial Gardens, April 24, 2019 at 11:00 am.