Merlin Phillip Harper, 71, of Riverton passed away on June 4, 2025, surrounded by his family at his home.
He was born on April 3, 1954, in Petersburg, the son of the late Wright and Betty (Hedrick) Harper.
Mr. Harper was a 1973 graduate of Circleville High School.
He had previously attended High Rock United Methodist and Franklin Seventh Day Adventist Church and was a member of North Fork Baptist Church.
His lifelong passion was cattle farming. He was a devoted husband, father, uncle and brother, that took pride in his family and his farm.
On Oct. 14, 2005, he married Gena (Burch) Harper, who survives.
In addition to his wife, he leaves behind to cherish his memory a daughter, Betty Harper of Riverton; a stepdaughter, Virginia Bruce (Eric) of Cambridge, Maryland; a stepson, Adam Swift of Augusta, Georgia; two sisters, Lucy Kisamore of Riverton and Rebecca Funk (Mike) of Rowlesburg; a brother, Berlin Harper (Debbie) of Seneca Rocks; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral services were held Sunday at the North Fork Baptist Church in Riverton with Rev. Eddie Reyes officiating. Interment was at the North Fork Memorial Cemetery in Riverton.
Memories and words of comfort may be left at www.basagic.com.
