Faye Jarrard Roper, age 89, of Cleveland

Faye Jarrard Roper, 89, of Cleveland, GA, passed away on February 9, 2026. She was born September 15, 1936 to Albert and Ethel (Vandiver) Jarrard in the Blue Ridge District of White County. After graduating from Cleveland High School, she married Robert Roper and became step-mother to two boys. She and Robert went on to have three more children.

After the youngest child began school, Faye entered the workforce. Working in the school system not only allowed her to spend time with her children but gave her an introduction to her career path, early childhood education. Faye began taking college classes and became Director of White County Head Start. She graduated from Brenau College, becoming Head Start Handicap Coordinator at the Ninth District Opportunity office. Upon retiring from NDO, Faye began doing contract work as a federal reviewer of Head Start programs across the U.S. She retired completely when Robert needed her care for his health issues.

Through the years Faye experienced two bouts with cancer and numerous issues related to the cancer treatment. She endured it all with grace and was blessed with many years of life.

Her friends in Blue Ridge District were very dear to her. She served as President of the Blue Ridge Goodwill Circle for a number of years and greatly enjoyed participating in the club’s projects with the local women.

Faye loved her family fiercely and was not afraid to advocate on their behalf. She will be sorely missed and Sunday family meals will never be the same.

Faye was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her siblings, Leroy Jarrard, Betty J. Savage, Ann J. Presgraves and Larry Jarrard; her daughter, Teresa R. Sewell; her step-sons, Gary Roper and Wayne Roper; her son, Edward Roper; daughter-in-law Patricia Whitlock Roper and grandson, Erin Roper. She is survived by her daughter, Patricia (Tim) Dockery; daughters-in-law, Sharon D.  Roper, Tamie (Jim) T. West; grandchildren, Candace Gray, Mark Roper, Michael Roper, Philip Roper, Paul (Karen) Roper, Mrs. Erin (Alexis) Roper, Katie (Jason) Morrow, Kenny (Brandie) Roper, and Matt Dockery. Also surviving are great grandchildren Leah Roper, Ethan Roper, Riley Roper, Keegan Morrow, Wyatt Roper, Natalie Morrow, Vinnette Reedy, Merryn Morrow, Kylee Reedy, Jack Morrow and Kadence Maust. Great grandchild Reed Franklin also survives, as well as loved nieces and nephews and her best friend, Fredine Collins.

Special thanks go to caregiver Sandy Ridley and Northeast Georgia Hospice employees, Kristen, Rebecca and Elaine, they provided excellent care.