Buddy Ray Harper

Buddy Ray Harper, 66, passed away at home Friday, November 9, 2012 from years of suffering from Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma since April of 2007, which was related to his years of service in the Vietnam War. He was a native of Lynchburg, VA and resided in Hampton for the past 16 years.

Buddy retired from the United States Army after 2 years of service, earning the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. He was a machinist by trade and worked for various machine shops.

He is preceded in rest by his parents, Rayford and Blanche Harper and a brother, Ronnie Kennon. Buddy is survived by his wife of 12 years, Rita Harper; son, Scott Harper of Illinois; four brothers, Calvin and James Kennon of Lynchburg, Edward Harper of Hampton, and Bruce Harper of Newport News; two sisters, LaVerne McAbee of Newport News and Cathy Harper of Vinemount, AL; granddaughter, Alexis Harper.

A celebration of Buddy's life will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, November 13, 2012 at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service in the funeral home.

Friends are encouraged to visit www.parklawn-woodfh.com to share memories and words of condolence with the family.

Arrangements are under the care of Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home, 2551 N. Armistead Avenue, Hampton, VA 23666.