Celebrating The Life Of Former West Alabama Rep. Samuel Harper
A man who contributed much more to the success of West Alabama than many people knew has died. Longtime legislator Samuel Alan Harper passed away this (Thursday) morning in Northport as a result of protracted health issues. He was 68.
The Republican served three terms in District 61 of the Alabama House of Representatives, first winning election in 2006.
He stepped away from the legislature in 2018, saying in his departing comments, "I believe strongly in the concept of a legislature led by committed citizens, not career politicians. After three terms in the Alabama House, I have decided to step aside and let someone with new blood and new ideas serve the good people of Tuscaloosa, Pickens, and Greene counties."
Like many political leaders of his era, Harper was first elected as a Democrat before switching to the Republican Party in 2012. He said at the time he felt he could do a better job of bringing jobs into his district in West Alabama as a Republican.
Harper was always a lawmaker who was more interested in results than getting credit. He played a significant role in economic development in Greene, Hale, and Pickens counties, which he represented in Montgomery.
"Alan did so much more for our communities than most people ever knew," said Rep. Ron Bolton, a longtime friend who considered Harper a mentor. "He was a major player in landing the Aliceville Women's Prison, which has been a major economic development for Aliceville and Pickens County."
Harper developed his economic development skills while serving on the Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority.
Harper chaired the House Economic Development and Tourism Committee and was also a forceful advocate for preserving the historic Bryce Hospital campus in Tuscaloosa. He secured the University of Alabama's commitment to lead a full-scale renovation, converting the main hospital building into the university’s welcome center.
Harper also served on the Tenn-Tom Waterway Development Council, the DCH Regional Medical Center Institutional Review Commission, and the Alabama Economic Development Association.
Harper was devoted to Northport. As the city's retail director, he developed “The Five-Year Plan of Work" that served as a roadmap for retail development in Northport. he stepped down from that position in 2012, citing health issues.
A Celebration of Life service is set for Magnolia Chapel North (Highway 69 N.) on Tuesday, December 30 at 1:00 pm.
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