Toni Marlene Lopez Harper

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Toni Marlene Lopez Harper on June 28, 2026, surrounded by her beloved family. Toni was born on August 18, 1953, in Waycross, Georgia, to Doris Kate Gillis Lopez Young, Benjamin Benito Lopez, and Chester Young. Her life was a testament to love, faith, and unwavering dedication to those she cherished. Toni leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, survived by her devoted husband of 47 years, Alan Edward Harper, whom she married on May 5, 1979. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising their cherished children, Jamie Harper Mason and Benjamin Thomas Harper. Toni's heart overflowed with love for her grandchildren, Mallory Kate Mason, Carley Marie Mason, Olivia Grace Harper, Layla Kathryn Mason, and Jordyn Audrey Mason. Her family was her pride and joy, and her love for them knew no bounds. In addition to her husband, children, and grandchildren, Toni is survived by her siblings Charlotte Barton (William Barton), Benjamin Lopez (Rebecca Lopez), Donna Cates, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were touched by her warmth and kindness. She is predeceased by her dear son, Matthew Edward Harper, whose memory she carried close to her heart. Toni's life was enriched by her strong faith and dedication to her community. A proud graduate of Forest Park High School in 1971, Toni's love for music led her to tour the world with the Liberty University Choir, sharing her gift of song. Her career in the judicial system culminated in her retirement in 2018 as a distinguished member of the 11th Circuit United States Court of Appeals in Atlanta. Her commitment to her faith was unwavering, as she was an active member of Bethany Baptist Church. Toni found joy in volunteering with Shining Light Ministries, a recovery home for women, where her compassion and empathy shone brightly. Toni was a woman of many talents and interests. She found peace in the pages of a good book, solace in the beauty of nature while fishing, and joy in singing and cooking. Her true happiness, however, was found in the fellowship of friends and family, with whom she shared countless cherished moments. Those who had the privilege of knowing Toni remember her as an honest, sincere, and genuine soul, always gracing others with her warm smile. She was a great friend, a loving mother, and an exceptional wife, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her. A celebration of Toni's life will be held on July 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Bethany Baptist Church. Family and friends are invited to gather in her memory, sharing stories and celebrating the remarkable life she lived. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Toni's memory to Shining Light Ministries, to continue her legacy of helping others. Though she is no longer with us, Toni's spirit will forever live on in the love she gave, the lives she touched, and the memories we hold dear. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love she so generously shared in this life.