Barbara Ann Harpe

It is with profound sadness yet triumphant celebration that we announce the passing of Barbara Ann Harpe, who ascended to eternal life on April 17, 2026, at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith, unconditional love, and a heart full of joy.

Barbara Ann Harpe was born on August 31, 1941, in Max Meadows, Virginia, to Boyd and Sally Rickey. She grew up in Pulaski, Virginia.

As a faithful servant of the Lord, Barbara was an active member of her church, where she shared her beautiful voice in the choir and nurtured the youngest members in the nursery. Her selfless spirit inspired countless lives as she prepared meals for those in need, offered words of encouragement, and provided counsel to those seeking guidance.

Barbara's greatest passions in life were reading, cooking and canning food with her children. Alongside her loving husband, she cultivated a breathtaking garden, and the bounty they shared brought immense joy to all who partook of it. Her love for family was endless and she cherished every moment spent with them, whether swinging on the porch, having conversations or welcoming her grandchildren for visits.

As a military wife, Barbara Ann Harpe is survived by her beloved husband, Marine Gunnery Sergeant James Harpe; her devoted children, Mark Harpe and Cindy Lucas, and her son-in-law, Jesse Lucas. Her granddaughter, Brittney Grujic, her husband, Miran Grujic, and her three precious great-grandchildren, Mila, Darko, and Filip, who were the epitome of her joy. She is also survived by her loving sister, Bernice Neikirk; her brother, Dickey Rickey; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents, Boyd and Sally Rickey, and her siblings, brothers Bascom Jackson, Dr. Cecil Collins, Bruce Collins, Ray Rickey, sisters Charlotte Callis, Shirley Warf, (twins) Ellen and Helen Collins, Elizabeth Cooley and Agnes Watson.

A celebration of Barbara's life will be held on April 22nd at Lotz Funeral Home in Salem Virginia. The family will receive friends and family from 2-3 pm with Barbara’s service to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Good Samaritan Hospice House in Roanoke, Virginia, in recognition of their exceptional care and compassion. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Good Samaritan Hospice, the medical staff, doctors, aides, and nurses who tenderly cared for Barbara during her final days.

Though Barbara may be gone from our sight, her radiant spirit, unconditional love, and unwavering faith will forever reside in our hearts, inspiring us to live each day with purpose, passion, and joy, until we reunite with her in heaven.