In Loving Memory of Valeria Y. Harper

Valeria Y. Harper was born in Asheville, NC. She attended Asheville High School, and is an alumni of the class of 1972. Valeria was a retiree of Buncombe County Government where she worked in child development for 30 years.

Valeria was a member of News Vision Baptist Church, where she served as a member of the finance committee, and sang with the choir. She was also a member of the Royalettes Social Club.

Valeria was preceded in death by her parents Bennie L. Harper, Sr., and Janie M. Harper. She is survived by her daughters, Shuvinda Harper and Tangela H. (Franklin) Porter; brothers, Bennie L. Harper, Jr., Bernard Harper; sisters, Gloria Harper-Madison, and Janie Harper-Smith; grandchildren, Sequia, Najeah, Bently, Trenton and Trinity; great grandchildren, Mason and Major; godsons, Robert (Bobby) Caldwell; brother-in-law Eddie Smith; special sons, Clarence Robinson and Aaron Hallum; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

To Those Whom I Love & Those Who Love Me

I am gone, release me – let me go.
I have so many things to see and do!
You mustn’t tie yourself to me with too many tears,
but, be thankful – we had so many good years.

I gave you my love, and you can only guess
How much you’ve given me in happiness.
I thank you for the love that you have shown,
But now it is time I traveled alone.

So grieve for me a while – if grieve you must
Then let your grief be comforted by our trust.
It is only for a while that we must part,
So treasure the memories we had within your heart.

I won’t be far away for life goes on!
And if you need me, call me, and I will come.
Though you can’t see or touch me, I will be near.
And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear,

All my love around you, soft and clear.
And then, when you come this way alone,
I’ll greet you with a smile and say, “Welcome Home!”