Obituaries

Geraldine Ann Harper

1/14/1942 - 5/4/2025

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Obituary For Geraldine Ann Harper

Geraldine Ann Harper
January 14, 1942 – May 4, 2025

Geraldine Ann Harper, 83, of Riverview, Florida, passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side on May 4, 2025, after a courageous battle with colon cancer.

Born in Tupper Lake, New York, on January 14, 1942, Geraldine lived a life full of love, resilience, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear. On July 3, 1976, she and her husband, Charlie, moved their family to Florida, where they built a life together filled with warmth, laughter, and strong family bonds. Tragically, Charlie passed away at the age of 47. Geraldine later went on to marry Hugh Harper, and together they continued to build a life full of love and cherished memories.

She retired from the Hillsborough County School System, where she worked as a cafeteria aide. In retirement, Geraldine found joy in the simple pleasures of life—crafting, baking assortments of goodies, watching her favorite soap operas, helping her son with handyman projects, and tending her garden, which she took great pride in keeping beautiful and welcoming.

She is survived by her children: John Barse, Raymond (Sharon) Barse, Adam Barse, Kimberly (Wes) Selke, and Colin (Angela) Stevens, whom she lovingly took in as her son; her sister Stella Black and brother Richard Perry; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will carry on her legacy with love and fond memories.

Geraldine was preceded in death by her parents, James and Helen Perry; her brothers Albert and Joseph Perry; her husband and the father of her children, Charles “Charlie” Barse, who passed away at age 47; her second husband, Hugh Harper; and her great-grandson, Kaleb Wingate.

Geraldine will be remembered for her strength, warmth, and sense of humor. She had a gift for making everyone feel special, lovingly referring to all the kids as “half pint.” She always had candy waiting for the great-grandbabies, a small gesture that made their visits extra sweet and memorable. She often added with a laugh, *“I ain’t going nowhere—I’m coming back to haunt all of y’all!”*

Her words, her laughter, and her loving spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and cherished her.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. The family thanks everyone for their support and prayers during this time.

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  • 05/08/2025

    Shirley

    I worked with Geri in the cafeteria at Roger's middle school and she was the best worker there in my opinion. I loved Geri she was an awesome friend and person all the way around.You will be missed. Shirley

  • 05/08/2025

    Tina Sapp

    She was one of the strongest ladies I have ever met. I know that she will be missed by all that had the pleasure of knowing her especially by her family. It is not good bye it is till I see you again.

  • 05/07/2025

    Melissa Stevens

    Geri was so sweet an nice all the time. Warm hearted! She is missed. Im so sorry for the loss. I love this family.

  • 05/07/2025

    Mary Stubenrod

    Aunt Geri and I always write letters to each other. And she share some of her recipes with me and I still have them. She show me how crochet and I learn that from her. Love her smile it was always warm and you know she was there for you. I will always miss her so very much. Keep her in my heart. Love you aunt Geri.

  • 05/07/2025

    Kimi Pitts

    Geri was a staple in my childhood life. We were great friends with Kimberly. I can remember after school going to their house and her making pizzas with us and baking. We used to have a lot of fun with Geri. I also have fond memories of her coming to my parents home and all the neighborhood ladies would get together and do Tupperware and other things that they love to do together. She will be greatly missed.