John Thomas Luper

It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived, that we announce the peaceful passing of John T. Luper on July 4, 2026, at Circle of Life in Bentonville, Arkansas. Born on February 5, 1938, in Kansas, Oklahoma, John was the son of Nola Lou Murphy Luper and Archie Luper. He has now reunited with his parents, his brothers Stanley and Howard O. Luper, and his cherished wife of forty years, Marlene Woodruff Luper, who left us in 2003. John was a man of remarkable character, known for his unwavering love and devotion to his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Brenda Swagerty Luper, whom he married in 2006, bringing warmth and joy into the lives of Brenda’s family. John’s legacy continues through his children, Tracy Luper and wife Ann, and Shari Luper Philpot and husband Craig. His granddaughter, Jaina Modisett, thrives in the United Kingdom, pursuing her PhD at the University of Leeds; a testament to the enduring inspiration he provided. John’s heart extended beyond immediate family, embracing Brenda’s 2 Children, 4 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren; Ann’s 2 children and 4 grandchildren, and Craig’s 2 children and 4 grandchildren. His love and generosity were felt and so appreciated by all, including sisters-in-law, numerous nieces and nephews, and a circle of devoted friends. A man of service, John was drafted into the Army shortly after high school, serving honorably during the Korean Conflict from 1958 to 1962. Following his discharge, he continued to serve in the National Guard. He was a Math Teacher and Coach in Bourbon, Missouri where he led the Sr High Basketball team to the State Championship and ended as State Runners Up. The family later returned to Oklahoma and decided to move to Colcord to be closer to family. He received his Master’s Degree in Mathematics at Northeastern State College taking night and summer classes while teaching at Jay, Oklahoma. John was a devoted Math teacher and Drivers Education teacher. He loved his students and spoke to them and of them quite often over the years. After a fulfilling career of teaching John retired in 1990, dedicating his time to his family and his community. A member of the First Baptist Church in Kansas, John was known for his faith and commitment to his community. He enjoyed donating his time to the Manna Center and his love for animals was unparalleled. His dedication to charitable organizations is a testament to his kindness and compassion for all living beings, whether it was a beloved pet like Moonshine or Maggie, or a stray we named Lucky a few years ago. You ask, “Why Lucky?” We said within a day John would have that Collie fed and watered, doctored and be best friends. Sure enough, we all laughed so hard when we told him we named him for you; “Lucky” he was lucky he got dropped off with you. He also loved his birds, cats, and even 3 racoons. John’s good heart and soul were always evident in his actions. We will always remember a saying; "It's just the right thing to do." The Luper and Swagerty families wish to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Circle of Life for their compassionate care during John’s final days and to all the friends and families that have been there for all of us. A graveside service, including Military Honors to honor John’s life, will be held on July 20, 2026, at 10:00 am at Bell Cemetery, in Watts, OK. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital https://childrenscancercause.networkforgood.com/projects/55656-children-s-cancer-cause_paid-search in John’s memory. John Luper’s life was a testament to love, service, and unwavering kindness. He will be profoundly missed but forever remembered as the Best Husband, Father, Step-Father, Father-In-Law, and the "Greatest Papa Ever".

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John Thomas Luper

February 5, 1938 - July 4, 2026