Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is mourning the loss of Keith Harper, retired senior professor of Baptist studies. Following a battle with lung cancer this past year, Harper passed away on April 23.
Harper served at Southeastern for 28 years, “faithfully raising up the next generation of historians, leaders, and followers of Christ,” the seminary said in a news release. “He instilled in his students a love and respect for history, impressing on them the importance of their heritage as believers and Baptists. As a teacher, he took it upon himself to genuinely invest in their lives, guiding many of his students through doctoral studies and entrance into the world of academics.”
‘Invested in his students’
Provost Scott Pace noted, “Dr. Keith Harper embodied the spirit of Southeastern as a world-class scholar who personally invested in his students and was devoted to the local church. His unique blend of wit and wisdom made him a larger-than-life presence that will be sorely missed.”
As a prolific researcher and writer, the seminary noted, Dr. Harper contributed to countless works of scholarship in the fields of Baptist, Southern, social and religious history. “In his work, he often sought to represent the unheard voices throughout time, and in his academic involvement he was a strong advocate for women in scholarship. Following his retirement in the summer of 2024, Dr. Harper resolutely continued his research and writing, even into the months preceding his death.”
Southeastern President Danny Akin commented, “Dr. Keith Harper was a much loved and valued member of the Southeastern Seminary family for three decades. He was a consummate scholar, teacher, and churchman. His books on the letters of Lottie Moon and Annie Armstrong will remain an enduring gift to the Church.
“Keith was also my brother and friend. I love him and his wife, Johnnie. Keith had a witty sarcasm about him that was contagious and endearing. I always enjoyed our many conversations about all things Baptist. My last conversation with him included a brief debate on whether we would study Church and Baptist history in heaven. I was certain we would. He was more unsure. Well, now he knows!”
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was written by Mary Asta Mountain and originally published by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
