David Brown Harper

Published 5:00 am Wednesday, November 20, 2013

   David Brown Harper, 62, formerly of Meridian and currently living in Ridgeland, died at his home Friday, Nov. 15th, 2013.  Visitation will be Thursday, Nov. 21 from 10 a.m. until the 11 a.m. memorial service at Canton Christian Center, 2735 South Liberty Street, Canton, MS 39046.      

    A 1970 graduate of Meridian High School, David also attended Ole Miss, pledging Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. He was a long-time professional driver for Arkansas Best Freight Lines and an avid, successful investor of his hard-earned assets. He was a self-made man. With Arkansas Best Freight, he won multiple awards for his diligent service and uncompromising safety record. A courageous observer of spirited living with an insatiable curiosity, David left Mississippi in the early 70s to explore the Colorado Rockies. He settled in Aspen during its raucous heyday, skiing and hiking the high country when at leisure, and dazzling westerners with his Mississippi charm. In the late 70’s he moved to Pennsylvania, beginning his career as a professional driver and marrying his lovely wife, Cynthia Swope Harper also of Pennsylvania, whose strength and inspiration calmed his restless soul. They eventually settled in Ridgeland and raised two delightful sons, becoming an integral part of that up-and-coming community.

    He is survived by his wife, Cindy Harper, sons Brandon and Nicholas Harper all three of Ridgeland; mother Hazel Pigford Harper; brothers Bryan and Mike Harper, all of Meridian; and numerous nieces and nephews.

    He was preceded in death by his father, Colonel Bryan B. Harper of Meridian.