Anthony Sidney Harper

THE LIFE OF ANTHONY SIDNEY HARPER

Anthony Sidney Harper was born in Chicago, Illinois on December 3, 1951. He passed away on July 21, 2025, at University of Michigan Hospital located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Anthony leaves behind a legacy of deep faith, steadfast service, and a heart full of love.  Anthony was a man who listened deeply, laughed fully, and lifted spirits wherever he went. He looked for the good in others and made sure they knew it — often with one of his signature big hugs or a firm and heartfelt handshake.  Born on December 3, 1951, Anthony, known to friends and family as “Tony”, was the eldest son of Sidney and Mattie Harper, growing up in a close-knit, blended family filled with love. He was also part of a larger extended family of siblings whom he also loved deeply. Tony grew up and attended school in Port Huron, Michigan. During his senior year, Tony moved to Detroit, MI. He graduated from Northwestern High School. Shortly afterward, Tony started attending Wayne State University where he began preparation for a life of discipline and leadership. At the same time, Tony was given the opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream of becoming an airplane pilot through his enlistment in the United States Marine Corps. He completed specialized training to serve as a commissioned military officer.  However, after learning from a friend what the Bible teaches about war and the pain and suffering it brings to countless innocent people, Tony began an in-depth study of the Bible. He later made the decision to get baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Thus, on October 12, 1975, Tony began a life of dedicated service to his God, Jehovah.  As a devoted shepherd in the congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Tony realized his greatest joy was in serving others. He offered support, compassion, and comfort to others in times of need. It was after those early years of education and training that Tony met the love of his life, Barbara. They married and shared 45½ wonderful years of marriage. Together, they built a life of joy and purpose, raising four cherished sons: Darrell McCloud, Jr., Brandon Harper, Bronson Harper, and Loren Harper.  In time, Tony returned to school to pursue further education and training in a field that aligned more closely with his new role as a devoted father and husband. He graduated with scholastic honors, a testament to his strong drive and quiet determination. Tony went on to enjoy a meaningful career in the field of power engineering. Tony was never one for the spotlight. He didn’t need much to be happy—just a fishing pole in hand, weekends spent with friends on the water, or getting lost in a good book. Tony was preceded in death by his son, Bronson Harper; parents, Sidney Harper and Mattie Harris; son; stepmother, Ruth Harper; stepfather, Alfred Harris, Jr; as well as other siblings and family members. Tony was preceded in death by his son, Bronson Harper; parents, Sidney Harper and Mattie Harris; son; stepmother, Ruth Harper; stepfather, Alfred Harris, Jr; as well as other siblings and family members. Tony is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Harper; his sons, Darrell McCloud, Jr., Brandon Harper (Dellory), and Loren Harper (Sarai); grandson, Kitana McCloud; granddaughter, Kimaii McCloud; stepmother, Betty Harper; other brothers and sisters, as well as a host of other family and friends. Tony will truly be missed.

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