Then came the morning, April 14, 2020, at 3:25 a.m., Sibbett Harper met his Lord and Savior face to face. Sib was born June 16, 1926 to Kiler and Winnie Jowers Harper, in Douglas, GA. His family included his brothers and sisters Myrtice, Hester, Ruth, Woodrow, Elmer and Felton, all deceased. Sib had very little education. He learned early in life, hard work and trusting God were the keys to success. On May 31,1947 he married the love of his life, Ruth Carver Harper, and they recently celebrated 72 years of marriage.
Sib served our country during World War II in the United States Army. Upon receiving an Honorable discharge, he and Ruth moved to Macclenny, FL. There he owned and operated Harpers’ Shoe Store where he was the top salesman and a shoe cobbler. Several years later Mr. Harper’s career lead him to beauty/barber school, and he joined Ruth in the beauty profession at Sib & Ruth’s Beauty Salon, in Marietta, FL. In later years, he transitioned to the retail convenience store business, Hi-Way Market on Phillips Highway & Sunbeam Road. He retired in 1987 to enjoy family and grandchildren. Daddy lived a wonderful life.
In addition to his wife Ruth, he is survived by 2 daughters, Renee (Ronnie) Dorminey, Jacksonville. FL; Sybil (Billy) Purvis, Callahan, FL.; five grandchildren- Blake, Dusty, Winnie, Betsey and Maddison. Six great grandchildren, all of whom he loved and adored. Mr. Harper had many other relatives and close friends. He was a deacon and served God and others at First Baptist Church, Jacksonville, FL.
The family would like to especially thank Carlotta and Dorothy for their many years of service and dedication, the entire staff at Rosecastle of Deerwood and Heartland Hospice for their loving care of our father.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, our family will have a private family graveside service. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions, in honor of Sibbett Harper, to Pinky Promise Foundation, PO Box 1934, Callahan, FL 32011 or Heartland Hospice, 8130 Baymeadows Way West Suite 201, Jacksonville, FL 32256. For Larry Douglas – Long time friend I worked for Sib and Ruth in thier beauty salon in the early 70’s. I knew Ruth better than Sib, I could see the love between the two of them and the sparkle in their eyes when the girl would come into the shop. I have not seen Ruth or Sib for many years but Ruth would always call me on my birthday and catch me up on their lives. I know Sib was a wondeful person and will be missed. May GOd watch over and protect Ruth and her family. April 23, 2020 Linda Lockwood – Family/Friend For many years an incredible neighbor with whom my family shared many good times and laughs. What I will miss the most is that forever smile, the contagious laugh and the electric personality….the perfect combination for a very wonderful man. You are definitely one of the angels above. April 17, 2020 Connie J. Carver – Cousin in law Deepest sympathy to the family for their lost from the florida Carvers Catherine, Bonnie,Connie April 15, 2020 Joey Dobson – Long time friend I was a young boy being raised in Macclenny when Mr Sid was in the shoe store. My parents bought many pairs of shoes for me and my sister. He also repaired shoes for my family. I have seen Mr Sid and Miss Ruth over the years, and they were always people of kindness and grace. He was always friendly and always talked about his fondness of Macclenny. I will remember his special way that he always had time for a young person like me. Linda and I will be praying for your family. Joey Dobson April 15, 2020 Wanda – Cousin Sorry to hear of Sibbett passing he will me missed. Prayers for the family and may God be with you all during this time of need. God Bless ! Love Wanda (Acorn) Cabanas Bartow, Florida April 15, 2020 Debbie Dougherty – Friend Marion and I send our thoughts and prayers to Ms. Ruth, Renee and Sybil. Many many sweet Marietta Baptist memories. May God Bless this beautiful family. Marion and Debbie Dougherty April 15, 2020