Deacon Roper

Deacon Raymond Roper, Sr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and steadfast man of God, peacefully entered eternal rest at his home in Charleston, South Carolina, on October 3, 2026. He was surrounded by his beloved family, who will forever cherish the memories of a life well-lived and a faith unwavering. Born on January 27, 1942, in the charming city of Charleston, Raymond was the cherished son of the late James A. Roper, Jr. and Julia Lemon Roper. He spent his entire life on James Island, where he nurtured deep roots and formed lasting connections. Raymond attended local schools from kindergarten through twelfth grade, before advancing his education at South Carolina Area Trade School (Denmark Tech), where he earned an associate’s degree in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. Raymond was a devoted and loving husband to his beloved wife, Emily June Rayon, whom he married on December 23, 1982. Together, they shared nearly forty-four years of love, laughter, and companionship. Their union brought forth a beautiful family, which includes daughters Rochelle Roper Johnson (James) and LaShel Rayon Graham, and sons Raymond Roper, Jr. (Roxanne) and Troy Roper,Sr. (Demetria). Raymond's love extended to his cherished grandchildren, Troy Roper, Jr., O’Shey Johnson (Shelby), Khalil Roper, Roman Roper, Janelle Johnson, Alexis Corley, Briana Roper, and Brielle Roper, as well as his great-grandchildren, Gabrielle Johnson and another precious Roper. Though he has joined his parents, sister Mildred Roper Anderson, and brothers Hercules Matthews and James A. Roper III in eternal rest, Raymond leaves behind a legacy of love and faith. He is survived by his siblings Ruby Roper and Perceil Delaine, along with many extended family members who will continue to hold him dear in their hearts. Raymond dedicated much of his life to his career and community. He worked alongside his father in the family construction business before his long tenure at Bayer Corporation, where he served as a maintenance mechanic for nearly forty years. His commitment to his work was mirrored by his devotion to his faith community at First Baptist Church of James Island. From his teenage years, Raymond was a fixture in his church, dedicating over twenty-five years to serving as Sunday School Superintendent and fulfilling the responsibilities of his Deaconship with unwavering dedication. In his personal life, Raymond was a man of simplicity and joy. He had a passion for fishing, often spending weekends and holidays by the river, sharing the bounty of his catch with loved ones. His craftsmanship was evident in the woodworking pieces he lovingly created, including cedar chests cherished by his daughters and daughter-in-law. Known for his no-nonsense demeanor and unique sense of humor, Raymond had the gift of storytelling, often sharing funny anecdotes with a serious face that belied the joy within. The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this time. Special thanks are extended to Mrs. Crystal Simmons, Mrs. Rena Ancrum, Roper St. Francis Home Health Agency, and Roper St. Francis Hospice, for their compassionate care and kindness. Raymond Roper's life was a testament to the power of faith, family, and community. Though he will be dearly missed, his spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who knew and loved him. To my dearly beloved husband, of all the special gifts in life, however great or small, to have you as my husband was the greatest gift of all