Noreen Neff Harper passed away peacefully at Silver Creek in Joplin, Missouri on February 4, 2026, at the age of 93. She was born on January 12, 1933, in Lovewell, Kansas, to Clarence Allen Rich and Catherine Elmina Beecher.

She was a resident of Seneca, Missouri and after graduating high school, she earned her bachelor's degree from Southwest Missouri State University and later her master's degree in education from Pittsburg State University.

For 37 years, Noreen taught third grade in the Seneca School District, retiring in 1990.

Faith was the foundation and a big part of Noreen's life. She was a member of Splitlog Baptist Church. She taught youth Sunday school for 20 years and guided young people in their spiritual growth.

She was a former member of the Happy Hollow Club and the Delta Kappa Gama Sorority.

Noreen was first married to Archie Neff, who preceded her in death. She later married Phil Harper who preceded her in death.  She was also preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, and one sister.

She leaves behind her children, Gwen Seaman of Joplin, Missouri; Vicky Michael of Seneca, Missouri; and Rich Neff of Neosho, Missouri; three grandchildren, Kasha Neff, Keenan Neff, and Malayla Bradford; and four great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held Friday, February 13, 2026 at 1:00 p.m., followed by funeral services at 2:00 p.m., both at Seneca Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Banner Cemetery.