Lovelda Langston Harper, lovingly known as "Peaches," passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025, in Franklin, North Carolina, at the age of 89. She was born on April 27, 1936, in Bushnell, Florida.

A proud graduate of Bushnell High School and Tampa College, Lovelda's early career began at the Seaboard Coastline Railroad, where she met her beloved husband, James Hannis Harper, Jr. They were married for 46 wonderful years. Together, they embraced the joys and challenges of life, moving their family, with the railroad, through several cities, including Waycross, Georgia; Charleston, South Carolina; Columbia, South Carolina; Wilmington, North Carolina; and Hollywood, Florida. Lovelda experienced a long and successful career with Avon Products and was instrumental in creating Avon Jamaica. Lovelda’s family has fond memories of traveling around the world with her for business. Lovelda and Jim retired to his native North Carolina in 2002, where she and Kerri were embraced by the welcoming community of Franklin.

Lovelda was a devoted mother to her three children: Kimberly Harper Coyle, Kerri Lyn Harper (Warren), and James Hannis Harper III (Julie). She took immense pride in her family, which also includes her cherished grandchildren: Dr. Elizabeth Farrell Helbling, Catherine Holland, Nicholas Helbling, Hannis Harper, and Emily Harper.

She is predeceased by her husband, Jim; her parents, Montre Kirby and Mildred Smith Langston; her sister, Marigail Smoak and her brother-in-law, Dick Bible. Lovelda is survived by her brother Joe Langston (Dawn) and Carrie Bible, her loving children and grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews, who will carry her memory in their hearts.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to your favorite food assistance program, honoring Lovelda's spirit of generosity and compassion.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 am on Friday, December 26th, 2025 at Riverside Fellowship Church, 1729 River Road, Franklin, NC 28734.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.