Ralph “R.L.” Roper, 82

Ralph “R.L.” Roper, age 82, died on Tuesday, May 10, 2016 at the Life Care Center. Ralph was a Henderson county native, graduating from Hendersonville High School. He was born to the late John and Elzora Moody Roper on April 15, 1934. In addition to his parents, Ralph was preceded in death by his two brothers, Clarence and Kenneth Roper.

Ralph proudly served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956, and was a member of The Hubert M. Smith American Legion Post 77 and the Hedricks- Rhodes Post 5206 V.F.W. Ralph retired in 1989 after over 20 years as a Service Representative for the employees of Amalgamated Clothing and Textile Workers Union.

Ralph was grounded in his faith as a member of the Valley Hill Baptist Church. He enjoyed spending time in the outdoors, doing yard work and playing sports with his grandchildren. Having a feisty and great sense of humor, he loved to play jokes on people.

Ralph is survived by: his wife of almost 59 years, Effie Parris Roper, as well as his son Michael Wayne Roper of Hendersonville, one granddaughter, Miranda Michele Roper of Washington D.C., one grandson, Merrell Christopher Roper of Hendersonville. He is also survived by one nephew, David Roper and one niece, Lindy Roper Webb.

A funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Friday May 13, 2016, at the Thos. Shepherd’s Church Street Chapel with Reverend Danny Pridmore officiating, the family will receive friends prior to the service at the Chapel from 12:30p.m. until 1:45p.m.

Flowers will be appreciated and memorial contributions in memory of “R.L.” to the donors’ favorite charity.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors are in charge of arrangements.