George "Sam" Cury Harper

HENDERSON-George “Sam” Cury Harper, 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family. Born Oct. 4, 1937 to Lessie Wilson Harper and Russell Sampson Harper, Sam grew up as one of six children on what he fondly referred to as ‘the farm.’ He loved his mother’s garden and riding on the tractor, both of which were likely precursors to one of the things he loved to do most - tending to his lawn at his immaculately cared for home on Peace Street in Henderson. He met his wife of 67 years, Decie Harper, on a blind date in 1954. Together, they built a life in Henderson, where they raised their only child, Priscilla Allen. A United States Army Veteran, Sam was the definition of loyal. Dedicated to his family, his church and his community, Sam flourished whenever he had an opportunity to help and connect with others. He was immensely proud of his family, and in particular, his daughter, who grew the family with her husband, John Allen. Sam was lovingly known as “Granddaddy Sam” to John and Priscilla’s three children, Mary Cole (husband Adam Pike), Cody (wife Lyndsey Saunders) and Caroline (husband Chris Dodge). While he was already a fantastic grandfather, the title “great” was made official by his three great-grandchildren, Leanna Pike, Jackson Pike and Grant Allen. He was everything a grandfather should be and more - doting, caring, kind and present - always ready with a hug, a kiss and a teasing word now and then for good measure. Sam had a sweet tooth and loved having a goodie handy for his grandkids (and himself). He always made a point to tell his family how he felt about them - and of course, to tell others how he felt about his family. His daughter, grandchildren and great grandchildren were his greatest accomplishments. Sam will be remembered for the way he shared his heart with others. He did that in many ways - bestowing nicknames on those closest to him (his grandchildren are Cupcake, Cody Buck and Boo Boo), lending a hand to others and spending quality time with whoever walked in the doors of his second home of the past 62 years, Vance Furniture Company, where he was co-owner. The way Sam sold furniture was an art. With each customer, he took the time to make a genuine connection - learning everything he possibly could about the person, their family, their interests and what they had for breakfast that day. He didn’t always make a sale, but he always made a friend. A man who was always early wherever he was going, he left us sooner than we wanted. But, Sam lived his life as a man who knew his ultimate destination and purpose, and left this world and the people in his life better for it. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, April 28, 2024 at 2 p.m. at West End Baptist Church by Rev. Cade Patterson and Rev. Ralph McGowan. A graveside service will follow at Sunset Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to West End Baptist Church Baptist Men, 619 Dabney Drive, Henderson, NC 27536.