Ruth Ann "Shirley" Harper

Ruth Ann Shirley Harper passed away Thursday, July 27, 2006, at Mineral Area Regional Medical Center at the age of 70 years. She was born February 20, 1936, in Flat River, to the late Albert and Mary (Coleman) Richardson. She was also preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Arthur C. Harper, a son, Tinsley Rider, and by three brothers, two sisters, and three grandchildren. Mrs. Harper was a member of House of Praise Church of God of Desloge, She was a devoted homemaker and loved spending time with her family, especally on the Holidays. She was known to be a wonderful cook. She is survived by two sons, Richard Harper and wife Velma of Doe Run, Robert Harper of Farmington, and by seven daughters, Janice Rider, Debbie Miniex and husband Kenny, Charlet Chenoweth and husband Gary, Sharon Harper, Cheryl Olive and husband Kenny, all of Farmington, Nancy Waggoner and husband Randy of Bayliss, IL, and Melinda Perry and husband Mike of Gulf Port, MS. Also surviving are three brothers, Lee Richardson of Springfield;, Paul Richardson of State of California, and David Richardson of the State of Indiana. Thirty-one grandchildren, nineteen great- grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, a host of other relatives, and her church family also survive. The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Cozean Memorial Chapel on Monday, July 31, 2006. Visitation will resume at 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday. A funeral service will be held at the Cozean Chapel on Tuesday at 10 a.m., with Pastor Rick Wade officiating. Burial will follow at Parkview Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the American Lung Association. Visit www.cozeanfuneralhome.com for obituary and online condolences.