Ellen Roper, 93, of Morganton, NC, peacefully passed away on Sunday, December 28, 2025 at her home while surrounded by her family.
Born in Madison County, NC on February 15, 1932, she was the daughter of the late Grady Nelson Davis and Bessie M. Coates Davis.
Ellen was an exceptional Mama and Mamaw to five grandchildren and many beloved great and great-grands. She was always hosting gatherings at her house and used the occasion to show off her fantastic culinary abilities. Ellen was a great wife to her husband and will be remembered as a firecracker of a woman.
Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Debbie Johnston; and numerous grand, great-grand, and great-great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Ellen was preceded in death by her husband John Roper, Jr.; daughter, Belinda Kay; son, Larry Gene; and seven brothers and sisters.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Condolences and flowers may be sent to the family by visiting www.sossomanfh.com.
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I'll miss you terribly Aunt Ellen I was wondering how you were doing and now I know you're doing wonderful because you're with our lord Jesus I remember you so so well when Kay and I and Larry and Debbie were little and you lived in Ohio you always made it wonderful to come and see you and tried to be with us and I missed all of th tell my mom and daddy in heaven I miss them terribly too and our Miss Michelle she loved you and she loved going to the zoo with you guys God bless and God bless Debbie and the family as they mourn the loss of you love Carolpe
My beloved Aunt Ellen, you are one of the sweetest childhood memories I have. Clinton Ave. will always be one of my favorite places. All aunts & uncles playing penny poker & us kids under the table picking up what fell. You were one of the best cooks in the family & always made sure there was plenty. Loved you to pieces & now you rest in eternal peace.🙏🙏🙏🙏
I knew Ellen many years ago when she worked at Grace Hospital. Ellen was a wonderful lady.
My Aunt Ellen was a beautifully kind woman she showed me sincere love and forgiveness I love her and miss her and now she shines on in her family's love 💞🫂🙏
Aunt Ellen you have been a beautiful soul since the day I meet you. I love you and hope you know that you'll always be missed but never forgotten. Please give grandma Zona and all your sisters up in heaven already my love and know that I am always remembering the memories we made together.
I love you so much Mamaw ❤️ I will miss you everyday. Pls watch over us 🙏🏻
Aunt Ellen was my favorite aunt. Always had a smile for me. She loved playing in my curly hair. Even as an adult when I visited she would pat the seat beside her and next thing I knew she was playing in my hair. I loved this woman with all my heart. I’ll see her again and I feel it won’t be long. Just remember the good times. Praying for all of you in this difficult time. Love you all
I'm gonna miss you my precious little mama. You were the best mama I know and will be missed by the many who knew you. You are now with my daddy and beautiful sister and my sweet beautiful brother. Your brothers and sisters were waiting on you. I love you mama and I hope to see you again one day.