Solomon Harp III

Solomon Harp III, of Columbia, died July 28, 2008, of complications from Alzheimer's disease, at Manor Care Nursing Rehabilitation in Silver Spring. He was 78.

Born Sept. 11, 1929, in Pottsville, Pa., to Solomon Jr. and Minnie A. Mason Harp, he graduated from Douglass High School, in Baltimore, in 1948.

In 1952, he graduated from Lincoln University in Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology. He also earned a master's degree in systems management from the University of Southern California in 1976.

Mr. Harp enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1952 and was stationed in several places throughout his military career, including Lackland Air Force Base, in San Antonio, as well as California and Puerto Rico. While in Missouri, he started pilot training out of a civilian contract school.

He also was in the Strategic Air Command, flying bombers, prior to becoming a fighter pilot. In San Antonio, he retrained as a fighter pilot and flew an F4. In addition, he was in readiness command where he directed an airlift operation, delivering grain to the starving countries of West Africa.

He was discharged in 1981 as a colonel, after 29 years of service. He was awarded a Legion of Merit, a Distinguished Flying Cross, an honorary Combat Infantry Badge, a Bronze Star, a Meritorious Service Medal, an Air Force Commendation Medal, and a Purple Heart, among others.

He married Carolyn White in 1954.

Mr. Harp worked as the director of operations for the BWI Airport for 12 years, beginning in 1984. He retired in 1997.

He was a member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, a national organization.

Family members recall that he enjoyed traveling and was a member of The Columbia Athletic Club.

Mr. Harp was predeceased by a son-in-law, Steven Henry.

In addition to his wife of 54 years, Carolyn W. Harp, he is survived by four daughters and three sons-in-law, Cherie Harp Roberts and William R. Roberts, of Maryland, Wendy Harp and Alkins N. Kirton, of Barbados, Joyce B. Harp, of New Jersey, and Lisa M. Harp and Drew Thomas, of California; two sisters, Beatrice Royster and Marlene Wilson; three grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Aug. 2, 2008, at Howell Funeral Home in Jessup. The Rev. Henry Turner, the Rev. Kevia Elliott and the Rev. Samuel Ray presided.

Interment is slated for Aug. 21, 2008, 3 p.m., at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va.

Memorial donations may be made to The Alzheimer's Association, Greater Maryland Chapter, 1850 York Road, Suite D, Timonium, MD 21093.

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