Horace Keith Harper

Horace Keith Harper, 87, of Sherwood Drive, Elberton, husband of Gail Daniel Harper, passed away on Friday, June 10, 2022, at his residence.

Horace was born in Elberton on July 15, 1934, son of the late Thomas and Corrine Harper. A graduate of Elberton High School and Eastern Kentucky University, he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Arts. Horace played football on scholarship and ran track at EKU. During this time, he was second in the nation for punting average, and served as a student coach. Following graduation, he taught high school in Kentucky and then Cartersville, before returning home to Elberton. After teaching and coaching football at Elberton High School, he entered the granite industry, as owner and president of Apex Granite Company, Inc. and Harper's Quarry, Inc. 

Horace was a long time member of the Elberton Granite Association, where he served multiple terms as president. He was instrumental in upgrading the EGA facilities and the construction of the Elberton Granite Museum. 

Horace loved all things Elberton, and worked to better the Elbert County Community. He contributed to the development of the Historic Granite Bowl, the development of McWilliams Park, and improvements at the Diamond Devils Baseball Field. He served as Elbert County District 1 Commissioner for over 20 years, a position he still proudly held. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Elberton where he previously served as a deacon. He was a member of the Elberton Country Club and the Elberton Elks Lodge.

In addition to his wife of 62 years, Gail, he is survived by his children: Keith Harper (Crystal) of Elberton, Melanie Sigler of Athens, and Mark Harper (Katy) of Elberton; grandchildren: McKenzi (Tristan), Jake, Rachel, and Harper; and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Tommy Harper.

Horace Harper’s legacy will continue to impact others for generations to come.

A celebration of Horace’s life will be held on Sunday, June 12, at 4:30p.m. at First Baptist Church of Elberton with the Revs. Gary Purvis and Jim Jackson officiating. Burial will precede the service at Forest Hills Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, Horace requested prayers for our country and leaders. If desired, contributions may be made in his memory to the charity of one's choice.

Those wishing may sign the online guestbook at www.berryfh.com.

Berry Funeral Home & Crematory of Elberton is respectfully in charge of arrangements for Mr. Horace Keith Harper.