Obituary of Teffera I. Harper

Teffera Ingeda Harper was born to Leanora McFarlane and Benjamin Harper on February 8, 1956 in Diego Martin, Trinidad. She was the eldest daughter of her six siblings. At the age of seventeen, Teffera and three of her siblings migrated to the United States and settled in Staten Island, NY with her mother, older brother and aunt. Teffera attended New Dorp High School and became a part-time model. In 1977, Teffera and her family moved to 157 Pine Place, a home that would be her forever home. On May 5, 1979, Teffera gave birth to her first child Leanora Harper, and lost her mother on May 9, 1979, a little over two years later, on October 8, 1981, Teffera gave birth to her son Kievon Harper. Teffera treasured her two children who she loved wither every fiber of her being. Teffera worked at St. Vincent’s Hospital in various positions and retired as a clerk. While working at the Hospital Teffera decided to broaden her horizons, she attended Audrey Cohen College where she received a bachelor’s degree in social work. Teffera went on to purse a career in her field of study and began working at Verrazano Nursing Home. Teffera worked at VNA for eighteen years and in August of 2019 she retired. Teffera looked forward to retirement so that she could spend more time doing the things she loved; spending time with her seven grand children, gardening (her magical hands could bring any plant back to life), traveling, and catching up with friends. Teffera will be remembered for her infectious laugh, her bright smile, her vibrant spirit and being the life of the party; she would walk into a room and dance to her own rhythm. Teffera had zest for life. Teffera was a very loving and caring person who was always willing to give a helping hand and a word of advice. She was knowledgeable about many things, but she loved discussing black history and world topics. Her style and grace were both immeasurable and admirable. She was known by everyone, especially her family, for her supportive and encouraging nature. She left a piece of her with everyone she met. Teffera’s life was cut short on April 5, 2021 at the youthful age of 65. Teffera leaves to cherish her memories her two children, Leanora Harper (future son-in law -Lamar Dawkins), Kievon Harper (daughter-in-law Mercedes Harper), seven grand children Nayah Harper, Chyna Harper, Kievon Harper Jr., Kirsten Harper, Ryleigh Dawkins, Kaylie Harper, Lamar Dawkins Jr. Her siblings Lionel Harper, Tadessa Gaehwiler, Boniface (Carver) Harper, Yohannes Harper; and a host of loving family and friends. Funeral from the Matthew Funeral Home Inc., 2508 Victory Blvd. on Saturday, 4/10/2021, funeral service will be held in the funeral home at 10:30 AM. Private cremation to follow. Family and friends may visit on Friday, 4/9/2021, from 5:00 to 9:00 PM. Due to the current pandemic, all visitors are required to wear masks and social distancing will be enforced. Please understand there may be a short wait due to capacity limitations.