Violet Leigh Harper Lanier
June 22, 1940 ~ November 16, 2025
Born in: Red Oak, NC
Resided in: Rocky Mount, NC
Rocky Mount – Violet Leigh Harper Lanier, age 85, passed away on Sunday, November 16, 2025, leaving behind a legacy as warm and unforgettable as the life she lived. Born in Red Oak, NC on June 22, 1940, she was the daughter of the late Clarence Lee Harper and Annie Laurie Etheridge Harper. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Martha Jane Harper Pitt and her cherished friend, Dewey “Buddy” Hull.
Violet is survived by her beloved daughters, Jan Jackson of Ocean Isle Beach and Leigh Anne Lanier of Holly Springs, as well as her niece, Leslie Ellen Pitt, all of whom adored her deeply and will carry her memory forward with love.
Violet was known for her beauty, her radiant smile, and generous spirit. Violet adored her two daughters Jan and Leigh Anne, who were the joy and purpose of her life. She was an extraordinary mother—nurturing, supportive, and fiercely devoted. Jan and Leigh Anne were equally proud of her—of the woman she was, the strength she carried, and the way she showed them what it meant to love deeply, live joyfully, and stand gracefully through every season of life. Their bond was one of infectious laughter, shared resilience, and a closeness that will never be replaced. Violet was generous in every way that mattered—quick to comfort and make those around her feel special with thoughtful tokens of love. She had a playful, mischievous sense of humor that made life lighter for those around her, and she was, without question, one of the most fun friends anyone could ever have. Her laughter, wit, and joyful spirit made ordinary moments feel unforgettable. Violet’s generosity and bright spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. She showed those around her how to embrace life with joy, kindness, and a little sparkle. Her absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but her memory will forever guide and warm the lives she touched.
To know her was to love her—and to love her was the greatest gift.
A Funeral Service to celebrate Violet’s life will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the Red Oak Baptist Church, 5515 Red Oak Rd, Red Oak, NC 27868, with Rev. Roger Fields officiating. Burial will follow the service at Red Oak Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Violet’s name to the Red Oak Baptist Church Making Room Campaign (Building Campaign), 4861 Church Street, Battleboro, NC 27809.
Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.
Services
Funeral Service: Friday, November 21, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Red Oak Baptist Church
5515 Red Oak Road
Red Oak, NC United States
27868
252-443-0376
Burial: Friday, November 21, 2025 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm
Red Oak Baptist Church Cemetery
7724 Red Oak Boulevard
Red Oak, NC United States
27868
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in Violet Leigh Harper Lanier 's name.
Red Oak Baptist Church Making Room Campaign
4861 Church Street
Battleboro,
NC
27809
Memories Timeline
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Kay Lilly
Violet was a special friend! She worked the Bullucks Sale for years and made my job so much fun! She was loved by all! She loved her girls and was so proud of them! Heaven is in trouble now!
I simply loved Miss Violet! I will sincerely miss the sweet cards in the mail as well as phone chats and texts. I will always remember Violet as extremely funny with a quick, sharp wit and a kindness that extended to everyone, especially those close to her daughters. I will miss you Violet 😘
We will never forget Violet! She has been such a joy and treasure in our family. Her love for her daughters knew no bounds. She was absolutely one of God’s finest creations, with a matchless personality. She will be missed and loved on into eternity.
I am so sorry to hear of Violets passing. She has been a dear friend for a long time. She and I both worked at the phone company and have kept in touch. She is also a family friend and will be missed by many. Praying for comfort for all the family.
Violet and I grew up in the same community, went to school together and were friends forever..we had a long phone visit not long ago..I will miss knowing she is as near as the telephone..
Deepest condolences to Leigh Anne Lanier , Jan Jackson , friends and all the members of the family on the passing of your beloved Mom, bosom friend, Aunty . I pray that as the months and years pass, you find peace in the beautiful memories and unconditional love you all created together as a family. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace .
So sorry to hear of Violets passing. We met working at the phone co. Just remember all the good times you had and all the good memories you have made.
So sorry to hear of Violets passing. We met working at the phone co. Just remember all the good times you had and all the good memories you have made.
So sorry to hear of Violets passing. We met working at the phone co. Just remember all the good times you had and all the good memories you have made.
So sorry to hear of Violets passing. We met working at the phone co. Just remember all the good times you had and all the good memories you have made.
So sorry to hear of her passing. Violet was such a wonderful person. I had the pleasure to work with her at the Bulluck warehouse sale. A warm, kind and caring lady. She loved her daughters and was so proud of them. A Witty, caring and funny lady. I am honored to call her a friend. Heaven gained an angel for sure. My condolences to her family.
Coak J May
Sorry to hear about Violet. She was a great person and miss her. She was a great
basketball player at Red Oak and graduated with me in 1958.