Rosalene Roper

Rosalene Roper went to be with her Heavenly Father on September 20, 2023 at St. Luke’s East hospital in Lee’s Summit, MO. Rosy was 85 years of age and was born July 20, 1938 to Red and Ethel Gifford in Bexar, AR. She is survived by her husband of 69 years, Bobby Lee Roper, her brother Paul (Wanda) Gifford of Huntsville, AR, two sons Dan (Donna) Roper of Searcy, AR and Wes (Becky) Roper of Columbia, MO, one daughter Tammy Roper of Blue Springs, MO. She was preceded in death by her sister Faye Comeaux of Houston, TX and grandson Jared Cornett of Independence, MO. Eight grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren also survive.

Bob and Rosy both grew up in the Viola, AR area and were united in marriage on March 18, 1954. They moved to Kansas City shortly afterwards. Rosy worked various jobs before raising her three children. They maintained their Arkansas ties as many other families moved to the KC area too. Many Friday and Saturday nights were filled with family get togethers playing cards.

Rosy developed into an excellent seamstress in addition to being a great homemaker. Many church friends looked to Rosy to make prom dresses for their daughters. She also enjoyed making quilts too.

Rosy was the Christian leader of the household and going to church Sunday morning, Sunday night, and Wednesday night was expected and not debated. Her example led her husband to repent and be baptized at the tender age of 82!

She loved supporting her sons and daughter in all their sports and music activities, which were many. Even though the family settled in Independence, MO, the trips to Viola were frequent to see her mother-in-law. The old homestead of 80 acres was the place they wanted to retire to which they did.

Rosy loved Viola and their retirement home. She loved fishing Lake Norfork for a number of years with her husband. She cherished the Viola Church of Christ family. In her later years Dominoes at the senior center and daily rides with Bob on the ATV brightened her days.

Visitation will be at 10:00 am, Saturday, September 23, 2023, at the Viola Church of Christ with the funeral following at 11:00 am. 

Any memorial contributions in her name should be sent to the Viola Church of Christ, 9733 Hwy. 62 W, Viola, AR  72593.