Dorothy Ann James Harper, age 92, of Ellijay, passed away Friday, June 20, 2025, with her family by her side.

Mrs. Harper was born November 12, 1932, in Ellijay, Georgia—the daughter of the late Henry Thomas James and Florida Ledford James.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Vernie F. Harper, sisters and brothers-in-law, Bessie (Ed) Woodard, Dessie Mae (Bill) Norton, and Edna (Romas) Norton; brother, H. T. James; sisters and brothers-in-law, Marie Holt and Venta Lee (Roy Ray) (Arthur) Weaver; and son-in-law, Donald D. Sams.

She was a lifelong resident of Ellijay, previously employed at Davenport Hosiery Mill, Ellijay Spinning Mills, and retired from Gold Kist (Pilgrims Pride). She was an avid gardener and enjoyed sharing her flowers and vegetables from her yearly garden.

She was a member of Northcutt Baptist Church, although she attended many churches in Ellijay.

She is survived by daughters Patrica (Pat) McClure, of Ellijay, Brenda Harper, of Ellijay, Carole Spearman, of Florida, Diane Sams, of Ellijay, and Lisa Harper, of Ellijay; Grandchildren Kenny (Janet) Turner, Amanda (Joe) Fowler, Rebecca (Chris) Wilkins, Heather Sams, Holly Chastain, Nicole (Mike) O'Brian, Margaret (Robb) Corn; Great grandchildren, Kylie Turner, Kanaan Walker, Kallie Davis, Asher Fowler, Archer Fowler, Atticus Fowler, Peyton Wilkins, Cy Wilkins, Maris Wilkins, Jaylin Stanley, Bryce Barclay, Kash Chastain, Erin O'Brian, Keira O'Brian, Jacey (Eric) Harris, Zachary Arron, Tyler (Anna) corn, Emmilee Corn; great great grandchild, Caiden Corn; several nieces, nephews, and other family members also survive.

Private services to be held to honor the life of Mrs. Harper.

Bernhardt Funeral Home of Ellijay in charge of arrangements.