Mr. Larry Thomas Harper Sr., 84, of Chincoteague Island, passed away peacefully at his residence on Aug. 21, 2026.
Larry was born on Sept. 27, 1941, in Burlington, N.C., to the late Jake and Grace Harper. He graduated from Walter M. Williams High School in 1959.
Following high school, Larry completed an IBEW electrical apprenticeship and went on to become a master electrician. He dedicated more than 50 years of his life to working in the electrical field. Larry also shared his knowledge and passion for the trade with his son, Larry Harper Jr., as they worked together through their family business, Harper’s Electrical Service.
In 1964, Larry married the love of his life, Neva Virginia Merritt. They shared 41 years together, building a life and family filled with love, memories, and devotion.
Larry was known as a hardworking man, a loving father, a devoted grandfather, and a great family man. He took pride in his work and in providing for the people he loved. Outside of work, Larry enjoyed spending time working in his yard, collecting pocket knives and fountain pens, and simply being surrounded by his family.
Larry was a member of the Ready Sunday School Class and a life member of Accomack Chapter #243 Masonic Lodge.
To his family, Larry was more than just a father or grandfather. He was a source of love, strength, wisdom, and memories that will be cherished for generations to come. His family lovingly knew him as Pop, a name that represented the special place he held in their hearts.
Larry is survived by his son, Larry Harper Jr. and his wife, Joyce Harper, of Chincoteague; his daughter, Karen Goleman and her husband, E.J. Goleman, of Atlantic; his daughter-in-law, Amanda Harper, of Clam; seven grandsons, Brandon McPerson (Erin), Larry Harper III (fiancée Rachel), Dustin Holloway, Jake Harper, Jordan Harper, Bryan Barrett, and Chance Harper; one great-granddaughter, Arden Paige Harper; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jake and Grace Harper; his beloved wife, Neva Harper; two brothers-in-law, Jack and Eugene Merritt; his brother, Donnie Harper; and his son, Bryan Harper.
Larry leaves behind a lifetime of hard work, love, and memories and a family who will carry his legacy forward. Though he will be deeply missed, the love he gave and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Funeral services were held at Union Baptist Church on Thursday, Aug. 27, at 2 p.m., with the Rev. Kevin Eley officiating. Interment followed at Daisey Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Riverside Hospice of the Eastern Shore online or by mail at P.O. Box 615, Onley, VA 23418.
Condolences may be made online at www.salyerfh.com
Services were entrusted to Salyer Funeral Home, 6327 Church St., Chincoteague, VA 23336.
