Raymond L. Harper, 93, passed away Wednesday, February 2, 2022. He was born to the late Jesse W. and Iola Bateman Harper. He served his country faithfully in the U.S, Navy during WWII and subsequently his community retiring as a logistics engineer for the United States Government. Ray cared deeply about the preservation of our history and was on the board of the Chesapeake Public Library, member of the Norfolk County Historical Society, served as the City of Chesapeake Historian and as the Colonna's Shipyard Historian. He was a member of Chesapeake Avenue United Methodist Church where he held the position of treasurer, taught the Howell Bible Class, and served on the administrative Board. He was an active member of the Ruritan Club, and member of the Society of Logistics Engineers. Ray was an accomplished, published author of over 13 history books honoring local history.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 72 years, Emma Lee Rock Harper, daughters, Shari L. Harper, Karen L. Harper, grandchildren, Alexa R. Rudis, Colby J. Rudis, and Collin S. Rudis; and a host of extended family and dear friends. The family wishes to thank caregiver, Tarsha Owens for her kindness to the entire family, as well as the staff of Spring Hills Home Care Services and Westminster Canterbury Hospice.

The family is inviting friends to pay respects Monday, February 7, 2022, from 6-8pm at Graham Funeral Home, 1112 Kempsville Rd, Chesapeake. A service to celebrate his life will be held Tuesday, February 8, 2022, at 2pm at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at a later date in Albert G. Horton, Jr Memorial Veteran's Cemetery, Suffolk. Please visit www.grahamfuneralhome.com to view the service if unable to attend and to offer condolences to the family.