KENTON - Jessica R. Harper passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2013 at her home, after a long battle with cancer. Jessica was a graduate of Wilmington College and received her MSW from Delaware State University. She worked for many years as a Social Worker in Delaware. Jessica's favorite thing to do was spend time with her family, they were her greatest joy. She also enjoyed time with her pets and loved working in her flower garden and spending time at the beach. Jessica is survived by her loving husband of 24 years, Bruce Harper; her son, Michael Skillman (Jane); two daughters, Laura Heikkila (Tim) and Kristin Skillman; step-daughter, Sherry Harper Soderquest; two step-sons, Timothy Harper (Jenne) and Christopher J. Harper; 12 loving grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; her brother, John Herwick (Katherine); her nephew, John Herwick, III (Molly); and many close and faithful family members and friends. A visitation will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 27, 2013 in the Faries Funeral Chapel, located at 29 S. Main St., Smyrna, DE. Memorial services will begin at 4:30 p.m. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to Delaware Hospice, 911 South DuPont Highway, Dover, DE 19901. Condolence letters may be sent by visiting www.fariesfuneralhome.com.