Lily Anne Harper (nee Mussallem) was born in October 10, 1922 in Haney, British Columbia, the youngest child of Solomon Mussallem and Annie Mussallem (nee Besytt). Growing up with her five older siblings, Lily became active in Vancouver's theatre scene, acting regularly on stage and on television. Her first career was as a school teacher in Mission during WWII and at David Livingstone Elementary in Vancouver. She continuing on to teach English, Drama, and Music at Queen Elizabeth Elementary and David Thompson Secondary.
Lily was married to Maurice Harper, with whom she had two daughters, Lynette and Janis Harper. Lily and Maurice divorced in 1970, with Lily remaining in Point Grey for the remainder of her life.
Lily Harper died on April 18, 2012.