Joseph N. Harper, Jr.

Joseph N. Harper Jr., age 83, arose with the sun on December 20, 1933 in S. Norfolk, Virginia and after travelling the world, resided in Albuquerque, New Mexico.  The sun set upon him on November 27, 2017. He is survived by his high school sweetheart and devoted wife of sixty years, Betty Jean; son, Joseph N. Harper lll and wife, Shelley; son, James N. Harper; sister, Ruby H. Spence and husband Carlton; brother, Donald G. Harper and wife Ann;  seven grandchildren, and eleven great grandchildren. “Joe” was preceded in death by his daughters, Deborah Jean Lucero, and Cheryle Lynn Harrison. After attending Ft. Wayne College, he volunteered to serve his country by joining the United States Navy, after serving four years, he then joined the United States Air Force and went to school to be a Nuclear Weapons Specialist. He proudly served over twenty honorable years and retired as a Master Sergeant. “Joe” was extremely involved with the Sandia Nuclear Museum since its inception on Sandia Base now known as Kirtland Air Force Base.  He proudly supported all Veterans in many capacities for many years; including being a part of the Albuquerque Drum and Bugle corp. for over forty five years.  Mr. Harper will be laid to rest by the wonderful men and women serving our country, who will be presenting full military honors for him.  We would be hard pressed to find a greater patriot of these United States of America than Master Sergeant Joseph N.Harper. A copy of Joe’s Military story will be chronicled and published by the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History (NMNSH).  “Joe” enjoyed his several Boston Terriers throughout the years, especially Scooter and Duke. He enjoyed bowling and golf almost as much as he loved his wife. In his illness, Joe showed remarkable strength and courage and always remained tender hearted, true and faithful in all his beliefs.  We find comfort on those words from second Timothy; “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” We know Jesus is welcoming Joe home with open arms, “well done thou good and faithful servant”. A family graveside service will be held on Monday, December 4, 2017 at 12:45 p.m. in the Santa Fe National Cemetery in Santa Fe, New Mexico.  The Daniels family funeral home is entrusted with the care of Mr. Harper.  Please visit their website at www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com to share stories and give condolences.