LaVale—Barbara Jane Harper, 84, of LaVale, passed away at her home on Sunday, November 24, 2024.

Born in Cumberland, MD, on May 1, 1940, she was the daughter of the late Walter W. and Dorothy (Springer) Johnson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Harlen Lee Harper and her sisters, Patricia Beier and Rebecca Zupsic.

Barb was Assistant Manager of Rose's Department in Front Royal, VA. Later, she was the Assistant Manager of Peebles Department also in Front Royal. After moving back to Cumberland, she was a homemaker. A Baptist her whole life, Barb was a member of Bedford Road Baptist Church. Barb enjoyed dancing, home decorating, gardening, and craft making, football games and spending time at the Ocean. She most of all enjoyed socializing with friends and family.

Barb is survived by two daughters, Sherrie Ricker and husband Gary and Cindy Lin and husband David Irvin; grandchildren, Chad David Ricker and wife Amy, Jason Ricker and wife Kelly, Dr. Conner Lin and fiancée Autumn Dishman and Spencer Lin and wife Grace; great grandchildren, Cole, Ally, Ava, Cade and Andi Ricker; Dr. Paul E Lin, which she thought of as a son; brother, James Johnson and wife Carolyn and her sister, Glenda Phelps. Barb is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins, and her best friend, her dog, Max.

Friends will be received at the Scarpelli Funeral Home, P.A. on Monday, December 2, 2024 from 11-1 P.M. Funeral Service will be conducted at the funeral home following the visitation with Dr. Paul Lin as a Master of Ceremonies. Entombment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Barb's memory may make contributions to the Salvation Army, 701 E 1st St, Cumberland, MD 21502 or (https://give.salvationarmyusa.org/).