Staff Spotlight: Willis J. Harper

A Vaughn C. Greene Funeral Services employee for five years, Willis J. Harper is currently the Supervising Mortician at the company’s York Road location.

In this role, Mr. Harper is responsible for adhering to the rules and protocols set out by the Board of Morticians, and he doesn’t take it lightly. Together with his team of funeral directors and office staff, Mr. Harper provides compassion and comfort to bereaved families as they plan funeral services for their loved ones. A man of deep faith, he also serves as the Chairman of Deacons at the United Baptist Church. Mr. Harper says he was called to the field of mortuary, and it has served him well in both his professional and his personal life.

Q. What do you most enjoy about your job?
A. I enjoy serving others and bringing comfort to families during very difficult times. The relationships I build with them are very important to me.

Q. Tell us about your family.
A. I have a wonderful wife and seven terrific children, including my six month old daughter named Isabella. I also have a one year old grandson, Niyan.

Q. How would you describe yourself?
A. I have a military background so I am very detail-oriented. I also consider myself to be very open and compassionate.

Q. Do you have any hobbies?
A. No hobbies per se, but I am active in the Army Reserves. I’m a Mortuary Affairs Specialist out of Dover, Delaware. In that role, I handle the duties related to all deceased service personnel, whether they pass in the U.S. or abroad.

Q. What do you like to do in your spare time?
A. I’m definitely a homebody. I love just spending time with my family.

Q. What did you always want to be as a child?
A. I always wanted to be a Marine and I am proud to have accomplished that goal.

Q. What have you always wanted to try but haven’t?
A. I’ll try just about anything! I’ve never gone bungee jumping but I’ve always wanted to.

Q. If you could meet anyone, alive or deceased, who would it be and why?
A. Jesus. I’d like to really understand his plans for us as humans.

Q. What would readers be surprised to know about you?
A. Many people are surprised that I have a grandson! The other thing they may not realize is that I love to help people and I’m generous to a fault.

Q. How do you define success?
A. My success is based on others. If they are happy and I’ve helped in some way, then I feel successful.

Q. Do you have a favorite motto?
A. “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” The Golden Rule will never steer you wrong.