William Carey Harper III peacefully passed away on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at the Wayne T. Patrick Hospice House. Carey was born on October 24, 1936 to the late William Carey Harper Jr. and Jessie Huey Harper in Rock Hill, SC. He attended Rollins College in Winter Park, FL, where attained both his bachelor’s and his master’s degree. He then attended Nova Southeastern University where he received his doctorate degree in educational leadership.
In his work life, Carey served as an administrator for the Orange County, FL Public School System for 30 years. He also served the school system of Rock Hill, SC by filling administrative vacancies before starting The Palmetto School and serving as it’s first principal. He finished his educational career by working as principal at Richmond Drive Elementary School. Carey also proudly served his country in the United States Air Force.
Carey always looked forward to his trips to Florida to spend time with family and friends. Carey enjoyed many outdoor pursuits. He enjoyed trips to the Carolina Mountains, boating, and visiting the beaches of Florida and his native South Carolina. Carey was a devoted member of First Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church in Rock Hill where he served as an elder. He was also a member of the Jaycees of Apopka, FL, and a member of the Rotary Club in Apopka, FL and Rock Hill, SC.
He is survived by his wife, Sarah Watson Harper; his son, Bryan Carey Harper (Shannon); his step-son, David E. Cunningham (Sylvia Taylor) of Orlando, FL; his stepdaughter, Shannah Eastridge (Michael); his grandchildren, Savanna Cunningham of Land-O-Lakes, FL; Shelby Stanton (Michael) of Jacksonville, FL, Alex Taylor (Niki) Apopka, FL; Jennifer Fleitas (Walter) of Orlando, FL, Mark Halik, Tyler Halik, Garret Halik, Ryan Halik, and Casey Eastridge all of Norfolk, VA, Meghan Harper of Orlando, FL, Amy Harper of Atlanta, GA and Heather Harper of Orlando, FL; and his great-grandchildren, Jaxon Taylor, Garrett Taylor, Kiley Fleitas, Zoey Fleitas, and Tyler Fleitas all of Orlando, FL.
A memorial service will be held for Dr. Harper at 11:00AM on Saturday May 18, 2024, First Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, 201 E White St, Rock Hill, SC 29730. The family will receive visitors prior to the service beginning at 10:00AM.
Memorials can be made in Dr. Harper’s name to First Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church.