James Rayburn Harper

James R. Harper, known to many as “Jim,” age 85, passed away on February 4, 2026, in Houston, Texas. A longtime resident of Clearwater, Florida, Jim was a proud graduate of Clearwater High School and maintained deep ties to the community throughout his life.

Born January 13, 1941, in Washington, D.C., to Rayburn Baxter Harper and Lillian Harper, Jim lived a life defined by scholarship, service, and devotion to his family.

Jim was a devoted member of the University of Florida community. He was one of only 350 alumni from the College of Journalism and Communications to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Additionally, he was a proud Bull Gator for over 30 years, attending hundreds of Florida football games over the years.

Jim was equally committed to philanthropy in his Clearwater community, where he generously supported local educational efforts and community organizations. He believed deeply in giving back to the institutions and people who shaped his life. Jim’s greatest pride was his family. He was a loving father and a devoted grandfather.

He is survived by his children, Lisa Beaton and her spouse Pat Beaton; Eric Harper and his spouse Stephanie Caravia; and Greg Harper. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jason Beaton Kaelyn Cronan), Kyler Duff (Ryan Duff), Grace Harper, Hope Harper, Milan Harper, London Harper, and Natasha Caravia.

He is also survived by his sister, Sharon Kennedy; brother-in-law Dan Kennedy; and brother, Donald Harper.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 6, in Clearwater, Florida. Additional details will be shared at a later time.

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In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the James R. Harper University of Florida Endowment. Donations can be made online at: https://www.uff.ufl.edu/giving-opportunities/012851-james-r-harper-endowment/