Hershel Edgar Harper, age 66, of Dothan, Alabama, peacefully passed away on May 26, 2026, at Southeast Health.
A service to celebrate the extraordinary life of Hershel will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, in the chapel of Sorrells Funeral Home in Slocomb with Pastor Billy Fortune officiating. Interment will follow in the Gardens of memory Cemetery.
The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m.
Born on March 15, 1960, in Dothan, he was the beloved son of the late Bonford Barney Harper and Kathryn Frances Peterson Harper.
Hershel was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who cherished his family above all else. He honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps and later dedicated many years to working offshore in the oil and gas industry. A passionate hunter and fisherman, Hershel treasured the outdoors and enjoyed sharing these passions with family and friends. Known for his remarkable skills in motors and mechanics, he had the ability to fix almost anything and was always ready to lend a helping hand. He was also a loyal Alabama Crimson Tide fan, seldom missing a game and always enthusiastically cheering “Roll Tide!” Hershel’s greatest joy came from spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter. Whether in the woods, on the water, working on engines, or supporting Alabama football, he lived life on his own terms and created countless cherished memories.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Raymond Harper and Ladon Harper; his sister, Betty Jean Kennedy; his former wife of 36 years and mother of his children, Janet Turner Harper.
Hershel is lovingly survived by his son, Joshua Harper and wife Crystal of Florala; his son, Jeremy Harper and wife Jessica of Slocomb; and his daughter, Nicole Boylston and husband Brian of Elba. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Breanna Harper and fiancé Taloray Costello; Branson Harper; Jackson Boylston; Braxton Harper; Ryland Boylston; Kyleigh Boylston; Dillon Harper; and Colton Harper; as well as his beloved great-granddaughter, Luna Costello. Hershel’s family includes his adopted son, Andrew Knight, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever hold his memory close.
The family expresses profound gratitude to the nurses and staff on the 3rd Floor of Southeast Health for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion shown to Hershel and his loved ones during his final days. Your dedication and support will always be remembered.
Roll Tide, Dad. Until we meet again.
❤️🐘🏈
Sorrells Funeral Home of Slocomb
(334) 886-7777, is in charge of arrangements. “Because We Care … Is Making A Difference”
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