Johnnie Lee Roper

Elder Johnnie Lee Roper, Sr., age 93, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, February 14, 2026, in the comfort of his home. He was born in Greenville, Alabama. In 1994, he moved with his family to Akron, Ohio. He was preceded in death by the love of his life his wife, Hattie Lee; parents Annie D. and Earnest Roper; daughter, Leetaa Roper Foster; son, Theodore Roper, Sr.; and grandson, David Roper.

Johnnie devoted his life to God, his wife, children, and parents. Johnnie was a man of God who walked by faith and witnessed for the Lord at every opportunity. He loved talking about the goodness of the Lord. He was called to ministry and ordained on December 14, 1969, under the Pilgrim Rest Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ, Inc.

From there he co-pastored with his father, the late Elder Ernest Roper at Trueway Apostolic Church and later co-founded St. Timothy Apostolic Church in Jesus Christ, Inc. on January 5, 1978. Johnnie knew his purpose in life was to help others. He always got straight to the point when greeting callers with “What can I do for you?” He lived his life by doing his best to fulfill responses to that simple question. Even if his family had little, he would share whatever he could spare with others if they needed it.

Johnnie oftentimes would say he felt he was the richest man alive -- he had his family who meant the world to him. Johnnie adored his wife of 63 years until death parted them. Hattie made him feel youthful like a teenager. Their marriage was built around the teachings of the bible. He loved his six children dearly. In addition, he would often say how he loved all children and wished he could provide for all children in need.

Johnnie was an only child, yet he had tons of siblings. He’d regularly claim people he met as his sisters or brothers in Christ. This humble servant of God was a hard-working man. Johnnie had strong work ethics. He was employed by The Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company for over 40 years.

During his time at the Goodyear Greensburg location, he had perfect attendance for 11years straight. He often worked double shifts yet still made time to enjoy his family. When he was not working, Johnnie spent time with his family and the family’s assortment of pets. Johnnie loved traveling around the country in his RV, visiting relatives and friends. He also loved tinkering on electronics and working in his yard and other family members’ yards pruning shrubs into abstract shapes.

Johnnie was a talker -- just ask any of his kids and grandkids. But he was also a doer. He gave lots of sermonettes with encores on how to navigate successfully in life. Then he used his life to show by example what a successful and happy life could look like. He always had a positive thought to share with anyone he met. He would wish everyone a good day that ended with “May God bless you!” His legacy is one of faith, love, kindness, devotion, and endless generosity.

He leaves to mourn his loss and cherish his memories, daughters Juanita, Deborah, and Vilomaria; son Johnnie Jr.; special daughters Kelly Ewing, Carol Jean Everett, and Ronda Fitten-Sanders. He also leaves behind 14 grandchildren which includes Gevon and Tyree, 1 special grandchild Laura, 26 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild, and a host of other beloved relatives and friends.