Richard John Harper, affectionately known to family and friends as “Papa,” “Dickie,” and “Bird Legs,” passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026, in Sierra Vista, Arizona, at the age of 91, surrounded by the love of his family.
Richard was born on July 22, 1934, in Bisbee, Arizona, to William Harper and Autie Harper. A proud Arizonan, he lived a life defined by hard work, service, patriotism, family, and friendship.
Richard proudly served his country in the United States Army and carried a deep respect throughout his life for the men and women who have fought for our nation’s freedom. He demonstrated his patriotism daily by proudly displaying the American flag at his home.
Following his military service, Richard built a long and successful career as an electrician with Phelps Dodge Mining Company, from which he eventually retired. Beyond his professional accomplishments, he dedicated countless hours to serving his community. He served as an officer with the Elks and as President of the Morenci Lions Club, organizations through which he formed many lasting friendships and made meaningful contributions to the communities he loved.
Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ruth E. Harper; his great-granddaughter, Amelia Vieth, their sweet angel; his mother, Autie Harper; his father, William Harper; and his sisters, Mary Ruth Harper and Shirley Whitlock.
Following the passing of his beloved Ruthie, Richard was fortunate to share many years of friendship, companionship, and adventure with his dear friend and companion, Mary Alice Walker. Their time together brought him great happiness, laughter, and comfort. Mary Alice held a special place in Richard’s life, and his family is grateful for the friendship, care, and companionship they shared over the years.
He is survived by his children, Stephanie Williams (John), Richelle Harper, and Kristopher Harper (Christin). He was a proud grandfather to Sandra Foreman (Ryan), Nicole Williams (Tyler), Holly Vieth (Brandon), Kyleah Romero-Villanueva (Jordan), Mya de la Torre (Marshal), Caiden Harper, and Amanda Coddington (Nick).
Richard was also blessed with seven great-grandchildren: Isabell Vieth, Hailey Vieth, Rylan Foreman, Emmett Foreman, Kohen Harper, Kaiyah Harper, and Matthew Coddington.
Those who knew Richard knew he never met a stranger. He could strike up a conversation with anyone and was famous for being able to “talk your ear off.” His quick wit, warm smile, and gift for storytelling made him a cherished friend and companion to many.
Above all else, Richard loved his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, whose accomplishments and happiness filled him with pride.
In his free time, Richard enjoyed fishing, hunting, and woodworking. He also had a deep love for classic country-western music and Christian hymns, often filling his home with the sounds of his favorite songs. These simple pleasures reflected the values that guided his life—faith, family, country, and community.
Richard leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, service, and unwavering devotion to family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him and fondly remembered for his kindness, humor, generosity, and patriotic spirit.
Funeral services will be held on June 16, 2026, at 10 a.m. at Jensen’s Funeral Home in Sierra Vista, Arizona. Following the service, Richard will be laid to rest at the Southern Arizona Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery at 12 p.m., where he will receive the honors due to a proud veteran who faithfully served his country.
Family and friends are invited to gather afterward for lunch and fellowship at 1 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel in the Navajo Room to celebrate Richard’s life and share memories of the many ways he touched the lives of those around him.
Though he is no longer with us, the stories he told, the lessons he shared, the music he loved, and the love he gave so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever.
“A life well lived leaves footprints on the hearts of those left behind.”
