George William Harper

George W. Harper, age 100, of Anthony,FL, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2026 at Always Home Assisted Living in Ocala,Florida.

He was born on March 5, 1926, in Jacksonville, Florida to the late George P. and Cochleen Harper. He grew up in Jacksonville and continued to live there until college.

George served his country during World War II and the Korean War as a crewman in the Merchant Marine. After his service he used the G.I. bill to earn an engineering degree from the University of Florida. Two days after graduation he began a job with Florida Power, now Duke Energy, where he would continue to work for the next 32 years, retiring in 1992. The majority of his time with Florida Power he spent as district manager for the Orange Lake and North Marion County area. He enjoyed his job and ,as an avid history buff, loved learning peoples’ stories and the history of Central Florida.

George loved to play golf and work in his yard. Although he never won a tournament, he enjoyed the camaraderie and the challenge and just enjoyed being outdoors. In his later years, he nurtured a beautiful large yard with fruit trees, such as fig and peach , as well as a large collection of flowering camellias. He was also a lifelong student of history. He loved to recount stories of military battles and world diplomacy. After living in the Ocala area for over 75 years, he had a vast knowledge of Marion county history and people.

George was active in his community and church. He was a member of the Lions Club, a long time member ( 61 years) of the Elks Club and served on the board for the Salvation Army. He was also an active member of the First Baptist Church of Ocala and later Unity Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, George was preceded in death by his wife of of 42 years, Margaret Swift London Harper. He was also preceded in death by his siblings, Elizabeth Harper, Clark Harper, Charles Harper, Juanita Davis, and Francis Akers. George is survived by his two sons and daughters in law, Hiram London and his wife Judi and Brent London and his wife Sheryl, of Anthony Florida. He is also survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Claudia and Dr. Robert Brockett of Lecanto Florida. George leaves a loving legacy of 6 grandchildren, 8 great- grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.

On Sunday, September 20 , Unity Baptist Church in Anthony, Florida will honor George’s memory during their 10:45 worship service. The family will have a private celebration of life during the upcoming holidays.