Willson Bartlett Roper Jr

Willson Bartlett Roper, Jr., 85, of Colonial Heights, VA passed away on June 14, 2015, a lifelong resident of the Tri-Cities. He was a graduate of Petersburg High School and a graduate of V.P.I. of Blacksburg, VA. After graduating he served as an officer in the U.S. Army in post-war Germany. Willson retired from Brown and Williamson Tobacco Corporation with more than 25 years of service. He was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Petersburg, VA. He served as a senior warden, junior warden and assistant treasurer. He was a member and President of the Cosmopolitan Club and former member and Vice-President of the JayCee’s. Willson was also a member of the Colonial Heights American Legion Post 284, Petersburg Eagles, and also among one of the first members and founders of the Petersburg POGO’s organization.
He was the son of the late Willson Bartlett Roper, Sr. and Hontas S. Roper; and was also preceded in death by his wife, Gloria Ann Roper. Willson is survived by his children, Willson B. Roper, III and wife, Deborah, Margaret A. Roper Upchurch, and Lee D.W. Whelan; and three grandchildren, CJ Upchurch, Mia Upchurch and Conner Upchurch. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 22, 2015 in Blandford Cemetery, Petersburg, VA with Reverend Michael Watts officiating. In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent in honor of “Bootie” to St. John’s Episcopal Church at 842 W. Washington St. Petersburg, VA 23803. Condolences may be registered at www.jtmorriss.com