Jerry Winfred Roper, age 81, and Florence Key Roper, age 74, departed this life just two days apart.  Florence on Thursday, September 16, 2021, and Jerry a mere 48 hours later on September 18, 2021, both after short illnesses.  They were so much in love it's only fitting they would go home within such a short time of each other.

Jerry retired from Velsocol Chemical Plant after 37 years.  He served his country in the U.S. Army as a younger man before going to work.  Florence retired from Baptist Hospital - DeSoto, where she worked as an EEG/EKG Technician.  Jerry enjoyed golf and fishing, while Florence enjoyed reading and doing Sudoku puzzles.  They both adored their grandchildren, and spent quite a lot of time with them.

Jerry and Florence Roper were married on October 30, 1979.  They spent almost 42 years together.  Jerry is survived by a sister, Pat Mayo of Newbern, TN.  Florence is survived by two brothers, Joe Key of Judsonia AR and Sonny Key of Marcon, AR, and one sister Pauline Davis of Chattanooga, TN.  They are both survived by four children, Michael Cottingham of Dickson, TN, Jeffrey Cottingham of Brighton, TN, Jennifer Perez of Burns, TN, and Jerry Roper, Jr., of Dickson, TN.  They were Poppy and Grandma to 15 grandchildren and eight great grandchildren  They also leave behind many nieces and nephews, who will miss them greatly.

In addition to their parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his sister Marsha Williams of Memphis, TN, and Florence was preceded in death by her sister LurDean Reeves of Memphis, TN and brother Billy Key of Mora, AR.

Relatives and friends are invited to the visitation at Forest Hill Funeral Home East, 2440 Whitten Road, Memphis, TN 38133 on Monday, September 27, 2021 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and again on Tuesday, September 28, 2021 from 1:00 pm until the time of the service at 2:00 pm.  Burial will follow at Forest Hill Memorial Park East.

Flowers may be sent to the funeral home at any time prior to the service on Tuesday.