09/28/2026
Mrs. Thelma Harpe Dampier, age 93, a lifelong resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully at her home on September 25, 2026. She was born on January 29, 1933, to John and Florence (Guthrie) Harpe. Mrs. Dampier was a member of Eliam Baptist Church and was more than just a homemaker. She and her husband were instrumental figures in the establishment and support of the Melrose Fire Department, the first in Alachua County, where they organized yard sales every Saturday to raise funds.
Her commitment to the community extended to the Eliam Cemetery Association, where she served for over 30 years, passionately contributing to the care and upkeep of the grounds. She cherished creating beautiful flower arrangements for weddings and loved to plant flowers in her garden, attracting birds and butterflies that brought her joy.
In addition to her parents, Mrs. Dampier was also preceded in death by her husband of 49 years William Rudolph Dampier, grandson R. Michael “Skippy” Stapleton, sisters Evelyn (Truman) Perry, Pearl (Bill) Riddling, and Catherine (Earl) Hartsfield.
Left behind to cherish her memory are her children, Rudy (Patty) Dampier, Darlene Dampier-Stapleton, and Steve Dampier as well as her sister Judy (Joe) Knapp and brother John L. Harpe. She was affectionally known as "Granny," to seven grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren and was a source of love, wisdom, and guidance to all that had the privilege of knowing her.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Eliam Cemetery Association, P.O. Box 621, Keystone Heights, FL 32656.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Arrangements are under the care of JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME, 340 E. Walker Dr., Keystone Heights, FL 32656. 352-473-3176.www.jonesgallagherfh.com
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.
