Helen Harper

Helen Harper (née Moon), age 98, of Grand Rapids, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 30, 2026.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Rev. Hadley P. Harper; infant son, Eric J. Harper; parents, Ellsworth G. and O. Hope Moon; and brothers, Bryden, Kyle, and Walter Moon.

Helen is lovingly remembered by her children, Dr. Paul E. Harper and Melinda J. (Jeff) Brubaker; granddaughters, Megan (Christian) Mack and Kylee Brubaker; as well as many cherished nieces and nephews scattered across the country.

Helen graduated from Oakland High School in 1945. She went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Indianapolis in 1950 and later received her Master’s degree from Yale Divinity School in 1960.

A devoted educator, church leader, and community servant, Helen dedicated much of her life to ministry and Christian education serving in a variety of roles before becoming the denominational Director of Children’s Work  for the Evangelical United Brethren Church (now the United Methodist Church) in Indianapolis, IN and later in Dayton, Ohio. Following her marriage to Rev. Hadley Harper in 1965, she faithfully served alongside her husband in campus ministry and in pastorates during their time in Pennsylvania and Ohio until his passing in 1995.

Throughout her life, Helen remained deeply involved in her church and community. She was an active member of Brighton Presbyterian Church, the Muskingum Valley Presbytery, the American Association of University Women and most recently the Church of the Servant. In recognition of her many years of service and community involvement, she received the Muskingum Y’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2012.

Since 2021, Helen had been a resident of Sentinel Pointe in Grand Rapids, where she enjoyed the companionship and care of both residents and staff.

Helen’s life was marked by faith, service, education, and a deep commitment to helping others. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of compassion, leadership, and love that will be treasured by all who knew her.

Memorial services will be held at 11AM on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Church of the Servant, 3835 Burton St. SE, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 49546, with Rev. Benjamin J. Videtich officiating and Minister of Worship Maria Stapert-Vander Berg. Helen enjoyed bright colors, so please come dressed in your favorite bright colors to celebrate her. Memorial contributions in Helen’s honor can be directed towards Church of the Servant or Brighton Presbyterian Church, 771 Lexington Ave, Zanesville, OH 43701.