Claude Roper, 90, of Valdese, NC passed away Sunday, August 23, 2026.
Born in Burke County, NC on April 16, 1936, he was the son of the late John Roper and Hattie McDaniels Roper.
Claude was a faithful member of Mt. Home Baptist Church. Known as “Cow Chain” he was a retired truck driver of over 40 years and had driven over 5 million miles without an accident. When not working, he enjoyed cutting wood and being in the yard and had been voted “best yard in the neighborhood.” After a day of mowing, you could find him in the basement, watching a Braves game eating an oatmeal cake. Claude was the most caring person in the world, as he would do anything for anyone and never met a stranger. He was known to some as “Dr. Roper.” A loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, he will always be remembered for his love of his family and especially his wife, with whom he always held hands with.
Those left to cherish his memory include daughters, Renee Harwood and Roxanne Webb (Bobby); grandchildren, Kenny Harwood, Kevin Harwood (Katie), Zachary Pritchard (Chelsey) and Drew Hunt; great-grandchildren, Candice Harwood (Devin), Chasady Harwood (Ethan), Teagan Pritchard, and Pacen Pritchard; great-great-grandson, Abshur Hall; and brother, Richard Roper (Nancy).
In addition to his parents, Claude is preceded in death by his wife, Verlie Roper; granddaughters, Christy Harwood and Alyssa Hunt; and six siblings.
The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m., Thursday, August 27, 2026, at Mt. Home Baptist Church. The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. in the church with Revs. Rocky Hartman and Lanny Smith officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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