Lois "Marie" Harper

Lois Marie Harper, lovingly known as “Mamaw,” age 87, of Paoli, Indiana, passed away on May 4, 2026, in her home surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and unwavering devotion to those she cherished. She was born on July 6, 1938, to Lester Elvis “Casey” Jones and Mary Jane Newlin Jones.

Marie was preceded in death by her parents, Casey and Mary Jane Jones; her beloved husband, Jack Ray Harper; her daughters, Marsha Schneider and Leslie McCracken; her brothers, Herb, Bobby, Woodie, Clifford, Clyde, and Donnie; and her grandchildren, Jeremey Scott Hall and Makenzi Elizabeth Sweet.

She is survived by her granddaughter, Jaclynn Marie Thacker and husband Chris; her great-grandchildren, Chloe, Zayne, Vanessa, Harper, Billy, Rayli, and Lilly; and her great-great-grandchildren, Maggi, Ralphie, Ramsey, Eliza, and Riley.

Marie retired from AO Smith after many years of dedicated service. She was a longtime member of Paoli Christian Church, where her faith remained a steady foundation throughout her life.

Known as the heart of her family, Marie was a natural caretaker. If anyone was sick, struggling, or in need, she was always the first to show up—offering comfort, strength, and unwavering support. She faithfully cared for both family and friends, carrying that role with quiet strength and grace.

She loved her family fiercely and found joy in caring for others. She enjoyed cooking, sharing meals, baking, and tending to flowers. She had a special fondness for ice cream and a good fish sandwich. She also had a soft spot for Huxley (Jackie’s Boston Terrier), affectionately known as “the only good one”.

Despite experiencing great loss throughout her life, Marie remained a strong and faithful woman whose resilience never wavered. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her love will continue to live on through all who knew her.

Funeral services will be held at Dillman-Scott Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 6, 2026. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with services beginning at 2:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Old Town Cemetery.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Gentiva Hospice, especially Janell, Rosie, and Melissa. Their care, compassion, and dedication to their profession were evident and meant so much during this difficult time.

Having spent her life caring for others, she now rests in the peace she so freely gave.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23