Gerald Lewis Roper

Rev. Gerald L. Roper was born April 17, 1939, to the late Tyre Lewis and Pearl Nicholson Roper.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Frances. They were married for 52 years, and they were very proud to have visited all 50 states together, the last being Hawaii. They loved to hit the road, driving long distances, always preferring to drive if possible.

He is survived by a son, Russell Roper (Meryl) of Marietta, GA, a daughter, Anita Roper of Louisville, KY, and three grandchildren, Eli, Lorrie and Evan.

Gerald knew at 9 years of age that he was going to be a pastor and never looked back. After graduating from Furman University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, he served multiple churches in Indiana and South Carolina, the longest tenure being with Central Baptist Church in Greenville, South Carolina. He worked as Director of Missions for the Pickens Baptist Association and after retirement, served several interim pastorates, concluding at Secona Baptist Church, where he was honored with the title of Pastor Emeritus, and was a member. He loved to preach and care for his congregants.

After a stroke, Gerald moved into Foothills Retirement Community Assisted Living, where he knew almost everyone and bragged on those caring for him.

Visitation will be Friday morning, February 13, at 10am, with service to follow at 11am, at Dillard Memorial Funeral Home, Pickens, SC. Gerald will be laid to rest next to Frances, in Forest Lawn Cemetery, Anderson, SC.

Any memorial contributions can be made to Secona Baptist Church, 234 Secona Rd, Pickens, SC 29671.