Thelma Maxine Harper
October 8, 1933 - December 19, 2025
Thelma Maxine Harper, age 92, peacefully passed away on December 19, 2025, in Fremont, California. Born on October 8, 1933, in Stroud, Oklahoma, Maxine was the beloved second child of Jesse and Alma Smith, growing up alongside her three cherished brothers: Bill, Jim, and Vern.
In 1951, Maxine married the love of her life, James Harper. Together, they built a warm and loving home, welcoming their daughter Shirley and son John. Robert Lincoln, who has been like a son to the family, also shared in their close-knit bond. Maxine’s legacy continues through her four grandchildren—Amy, Amanda, Trenton, and Cameron—and her great-grandchildren, Norah and Cleo, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.
Maxine’s life was rich with creativity, dedication, and service. Alongside her years on the family farm, she found fulfillment in cake decorating, bowling, bookkeeping, stained glass artistry, sewing, and quilting. Her hands were rarely idle, and her heart was always open. She was deeply involved in her church, where her faith and kindness touched many lives.
Thelma Maxine Harper will be remembered for her unwavering love for family, her creative spirit, and her active role in her community and church. Her warmth, generosity, and zest for life leave a lasting impression on all who knew her. Maxine’s legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will cherish her memory forever.
Service
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, December 17, 2025 at 1:30pm at Cherokee Memorial Park, located off of Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi, CA 95240.
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Harper family.