Rose Semonne Oliver Harper crossed over to be with her Lord and Savior on April 4, 2015. Born on August 23, 1926, she spent 88 special years with her family and friends.

Rose was predeceased by the love of her life, Jack E. Harper, Jr., to whom she was married fifty-five years. She is survived by her four children, Jack E. Harper, III of Greenwood, MS, Semonne Harper Strawbridge of Birmingham, AL, Robert H. "Bob" Harper and wife Lee of Memphis, TN, William B. "Bill" Harper and wife Alice of McCarley, MS, and four grandchildren.

Rose grew up in Martin, Tennessee, exhibiting at a very early age a gift for and love of music. Her keen interest in music led her to attend Martin Junior College and Murray State College.

After receiving a teaching certificate, Rose moved to Indianola to teach fourth grade. Shortly thereafter, she met WWII veteran, U. S. Marine, young attorney, and future husband, Jack, who never left her doorstep once they met.

In addition to raising her four children, Rose was actively involved in many and various civic activities over the years, but none of her activities were longer or more meaningful than playing the organ and piano at First United Methodist Church of Indianola where she was an active and loyal member for more than sixty years.

A strong woman who rarely let a personal illness stand in the way of playing music during the numerous services, weddings, and funerals, Rose bravely battled a difficult and progressively debilitating illness over the last decade. She was blessed to have the help of loving caregivers, Ms. Daisy Joiner, Ms. Bobbie Moore, Ms. Bernice Buck, and Ms. Hannah Richard, who tirelessly assisted her physically and spiritually.

Graveside services were held on April 6, 2015 at Indianola City Cemetery with her family attending. Rev. Stephen Sparks officiated. Burton Funeral Home of Indianola was in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, PO Box 86, Indianola, MS 38751, or to the charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences may be shared at www.burtonfuneralhome.net