Gene Roper, Sr.

Gene Roper, Sr., age 78, of Union Mills, passed away Monday, December 14, 2020 at his residence.

Gene was born August 1, 1942 in Rutherford County to the late Joseph Howard Roper and Janie Barrett Roper. He was a faithful and active member of the First Wesleyan Church in Forest City. Gene worked as a Carpenter/Handyman in construction most of his life. He enjoyed working outdoors and gardening.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Melvin Roper.

Those left to cherish his memory include his daughter, Crystal Roper Burgess (Brian) of Forest City; son, Robert Gene Roper, Jr. (Melissa) of Bostic; two brothers, Charles Roper (Carol) of Rutherfordton and Mike Johnson (Christy) of Forest City and a sister, Carol Jones of Forest City. He is also survived by six grandchildren, Brandon Hawkins, Morgan Henson (Adam), Magan Roper, Shawn Roper, Ryan Roper, Ritchie Burgess and several great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be conducted at 2:00 pm on Friday, December 18, 2020 at the First Wesleyan Church in Forest City with Reverend Eric Yelton officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to service time at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are requested to the First Wesleyan Church, 700 S. Church Street, Forest City, NC  28043.

Harrelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been entrusted with arrangements.

An online guest registry is available at www.harrelsonfuneralhome.com