Wanda Harper

Wanda Nell Harper, 82, of Cleburne passed away Thursday, September 22, 2022, in Cleburne. She was born November 6, 1939, in Clovis, New Mexico to Flora Jewel Twilligear Case and D.C. “Jack” Case, Jr. Wanda married Dwayne Harper on January 2, 1960, in Brownwood, Texas.

As a pastor’s wife, Wanda’s creative energy found expression in Children’s Ministry, Easter and Christmas production and Big Day celebrations. She enjoyed working with both young and old to put on an all-volunteer play, complete with sets and live music. She was a gatherer of people who brought everyone within her sphere of influence closer to each other and God.

She thrived in order and detail in her private and public life. Yet, she was quick to smile, quick to encourage, always inspiring others to fulfill their highest potential. While known for her sense of style, Wanda will forever be remembered for her grace and poise.

Wanda had a distinguished career serving in both private and public education. She began teaching 5th Grade at Coleman Elementary School and later was chosen to start Coleman’s Gifted and Talented program. She had a profound love for education and was continually amazed and challenged by the brilliance of her students.

After relocating to Connecticut, Wanda served as the Principal for Windham Christian Academy, an accredited private institution. She retired from education in 2010 after 40 years of service. Following retirement, she returned to Texas.

Wanda had a love for life, travel and all things beautiful. Yet, nothing surpassed her love and devotion to family. Growing up, surrounded by hundreds of aunts, uncles and ‘first cousins,’ her “Twilligear” family, shaped her early years and instilled a deep abiding sense of family.

Her ‘boys,’ Michael and Stephen were the center of her life, second only to her love for her six grandchildren. Family defined her passion and priority. She never failed to tell her family, whom she affectionately called “her precious,” how proud she was of them. No family member ever left the room without being told “I love you.”

Wanda is survived by her loving husband, Dwayne Harper of Cleburne, Texas; children and their spouses, Michael Harper and Rhonda of Waxahachie, Texas, Stephen Harper and Krista of Las Vegas, Nevada; grandchildren, Cameron Harper and spouse, Katelyn, Crew Harper, Caymin Harper, Cross Harper, Connor Harper and Carlie Harper; great-grandchildren, Caiden Harper and Khloie Harper; niece, Hollie Ragon and spouse, Joe of Glen Rose, Texas; nephew, David Case and spouse, Linda of Overland Park, Kansas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and brother, Don Case.

Service for Wanda will be conducted at 1:30 P.M., Tuesday, September 27, 2022, at Bethel Temple Assembly of God in Cleburne. Burial will follow in Rosehill Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6:00-8:00 P.M., Monday, September 26, 2022, at the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home. Pallbearers will be Cameron Harper, Crew Harper, Connor Harper, Clint Gallimore, Joe Ragon and Hunter Martinez.