Marion Earl Harper

Earl Harper, 88 of Merkel, passed away Thursday, January 6th, 2011 at a local hospital. A service is scheduled for 2:00pm Monday, January the 10th at the First Assembly of God Church in Abilene, 1010 Cypress St with Pastor Rick Earp officiating, under the direction of Piersall Benton Funeral Directors, 733 Butternut St. Burial will follow at the Tye Cemetery. A viewing will be held, prior to the service, at 1:00pm in the church on Monday.

Marion Earl Harper was born November 15, 1922 to William T. Harper and Mary Moore Harper in Aspermont, Texas. He attended school in Aspermont but like many in his generation, he went to work at a young age. Earl joined the Air Force during WWII and flew B-17's and F-15's. He was shot down over France while in an F-15 and was rescued by the French resistance. After his time in the military Earl used his piloting talents to work for different companies as a test pilot and as a personal pilot for company executives.


In 1999 Earl moved to Abilene and in 2004 he married Barbara Cullum. Together they enjoyed many great adventures in the short time they had. Preceding Earl in death are his parents, a brother, and two spouses, Louise and Ellen. He is survived by his wife Barbara, a son Michael Earl Harper and wife Andrea of Midlothian, a niece Donna Rogers, 3 step-sons Robert Cullum and wife Jeanette, Greggory Cullum and Bryon Culllum as well as several grandchildren, step-grandchildren and many close friends.

Condolences may be offered to the family online at www.pbfuneraldirectors.com.