Donald Edward Roper

SHELBY: Donald Edward Roper, of Cleveland County, North Carolina, was born on November 20, 1941, and passed away in the same county on October 14, 2025, at the age of 83.

Donald led a life marked by dedication, warmth, and an infectious spirit. Proudly serving as a police officer in Kings Mountain during the 1970s, he later retired as a Lab Technician from Lithium Corp, committing over three decades to his work. His professional journey was one of diligence and steadfastness.

A man of varied interests, Donald was a true connoisseur of life’s simple pleasures. His love of food was undeniable, with a penchant for hot, spicy flavors and a notorious sweet tooth. Family gatherings were a delight to him, where he savored anything his beloved sisters prepared, with the exception of pinto beans.

Donald was known for his storytelling, particularly in his later years, sharing tales filled with humor and wisdom. As the last surviving sibling of 11, he held a special place in the hearts of many. His handwriting was remarkably neat, and he had a talent for doodling charming little pictures. Ever the charmer, Donald had a fondness for the company of women and was known for his flirting prowess.

In his youth, he proudly won a male pretty legs contest and was an active member of the Knights Motorcycle Club during the late 1960s and early 1970s. A lover of classic westerns, he never tired of watching John Wayne, "The Andy Griffith Show," or Fox News. Music brought him great joy, especially Creedence Clearwater Revival, and he often entertained loved ones with renditions of "Sweet Caroline," particularly when seeking to lighten his wife Carolyn's spirits.

An avid outdoorsman, Donald cherished time spent camping at Lake Norman and was fond of water skiing. A loyal Clemson fan, he also appreciated the simple pleasure of mowing his lawn. Known for his love of vintage cars, Donald took pride in his 1940 Ford Coupe and Chevy Z71.

His presence in the community was profound; he seemed to know everyone in town and would greet acquaintances with a hearty call of their names. Donald's laughter was contagious, and his kind-hearted nature left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He found beauty in people, always focusing on their good qualities, and often recited Robert Frost’s "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening," capturing the quiet contemplations of life.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ivy and Mamie Roper; his son, Donnie Roper; sisters Lorena Falls, Margaret Payne, Ivory Nolan, Mary Pearson, and Mildred Shytle; and brothers Junior Roper, Nelson Roper, Mike Roper, Paul Roper, and Jim Roper.

Donald leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, survived by his daughter Kimberly Roper; grandchildren Trey Roper and wife Whitney, Sarah Bowen and husband Joshua, and Whitney Roper; along with five great-grandchildren, Meadow, Kaily, Addy, Bodhi, and Kai. He will also be dearly missed by his special sister-in-law Diane and brother-in-law David.

A gathering of friends to celebrate Donald's life will be held on Saturday, October 18th, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home in Kings Mountain, NC.

Donald Edward Roper will be remembered for his enduring kindness, his zest for life, and the warmth he shared with all who had the privilege to know him. May he rest in eternal peace.

Arrangements are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funerals, Cremations, and Aquamation Center, 1401 West Dixon Blvd Shelby, NC 28152.