Obituaries

Chesapeake-Our Heavenly Father called to rest, Michael “Big Mike” Donnell Harper Sr. on Tuesday, October 2, 2023 in the comfort of his home. He was born March 4, 1956 in Norfolk County, now (City of Chesapeake) to the late Linwood Issac Harper Sr. and Naomi James Harper.

Michael was predeceased by his parents; two sisters, Ida Mae Tillett (Cleveland) and Denise Harper; brother, Dennis Ray Harper Sr. (June); and brother-in-law, Albert Joyner.

Michael worked for the Chesapeake Public Schools for a few years before becoming disabled. After leaving the school system, he pursued his passion of carpentry. He started his company H & H Painting and Plastering. He was known for his painting and plastering abilities and was one of the best in the Tidewater area. In his spare time he loved to fish (his favorite past time), hunt, cok, travel, and serve his community.

Michael was ordained as a deacon in Covenant Fellowship Church under the leadership of Bishop Kevin R. White and served faithfully until his demise.

He was known for his UNIQUE sense of fashion with bold colored suits and style of dress. To those he knew, his family and even strangers, he was like a father figure and someone you could call on in a time of need. He was a mighty prayer warrior for anyone that needed him to pray for them.

He is survived by his loving wife, Hattie Epps Harper; his sons, Michael Harper Jr. (Candice), Gary Harper, Michael Nixon and Aubrey Mercer; his daughters, Shamika Nixon, Laquisha Epps, Sheena Turner and Lavette Perry; his grandchildren, Trevontae, Darius, Amir, Ariana, Gabriel, Michaela, Kakayla, Kyazia, Omari, Tinasia, T’Ana, Makiyah, Demontae, Miasia, Mekhai, Devaughn, Michael Nixon Jr. and Myron. Also left to cherish his memory are his siblings, Peggy Joyner, Linwood Harper Jr., Sandra Harper (Vernon), Leroy Harper (Linda); six sisters-in-law; and four brothers-in-law. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends that loved him dearly.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 am Monday; October 9, 2023 at New Gailiee Missionary Baptist Church; 1765 S. Military Highway; Chesapeake, VA. Burial will be in Roosevelt Memorial Park; Chesapeake, VA. Viewing will be 2-4pm Sunday at the funeral home.

Please click the link below to livestream the service

https://v2.forever.link/fitchettmann/michael-d-harper-sr