With profound humility and deep respect for a lifetime of servitude, we honor Herschel "Turk" James Roper on his magnanimous journey through life. Born to Theodore and Thomelia Roper on May 30, 1938 in Lansing, Michigan, Herschel championed life with a noble and courageous spirit. At the age of 85, on February 11, 2024, he gracefully embraced eternal peace. Join us in celebrating his earthly journey marked by competitive athleticism, unwavering patriotism, and a compassionate commitment to the betterment of humanity through rehabilitative occupational and philanthropic engagement.

Herschel's resolute aspiration to attain excellence through worthy merit is evidenced by distinguished accolades and published lifetime achievements. Athletically, he was a State of Michigan boxing and wrestling state champion, Compton College track and football scholarship recipient, basketball and swimming enthusiast. He masterfully and strategically dedicated decades of his life to his passionate love for chess. He converged with relatives, friends and strangers to gregariously engage in competitive rounds of golf, billiards, cards, checkers, dominos- anything to bring others together. Militarily, he served in the United States Army as a Special Forces Ranger and Paratrooper. He worked with the Peace Corps in Puerto Armuelles, Province of Chiriqui, Republic of Panama. Herschel's two greatest self proclaimed accomplishments are described as his assignment to The Honor Guard and PhD Candidacy. He dutifully stood as a protective watch at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and participated in President John F. Kennedy's funeral at the end of his military career. His academic pursuits culminated with the completion of all PhD coursework from Michigan State University, a milestone that reflected his passion for continuous growth and contribution to society.

Herschel served as President and Executive Director of the Urban League, Director of New Birth Center Methadone and Detoxification Clinic, Director of Substance Abuse Treatment for Tri-County Community Mental Health Board, Counseling Coordinator and Vocational Placement Specialist for Ingham County Jail, State of Michigan Examiner for the Disability Determination Program, State of Michigan Inspector for amateur and professional boxing and wrestling, Instructor for Lansing Community College, Budget Analyst for Senate Fiscal Agency Legislative Branch of the State Government, Chief Administrative Officer of Clinton Valley and Fairlawn Center for the State of Michigan in the Department of Mental Health and ended his professional career as the Founder & Owner of Sunrise Health Clinics in Las Vegas, NV, still operating today.

Along with Herschel's passion for educational and employment advancements, he had a dedication to coaching, guiding, and leading others to heal, grow, compete, and attempt to be a better version of themselves, lending himself as a father figure to a multitude of others. Anyone who knew Herschel heard a joke; he wove laughter and compassion into every opportunity, challenging hardship with levity and an opportunity for self-reflection. Later in life, his benevolent nature led him to a path of righteousness as a man of faith, a "Devout Christian," who walked in gratitude and reverence for the Lord. In August 2023, as a member of the Tabernacle of David Church, Herschel rededicated his life to Christ through baptism. He became a Master Mason in August 2001. At the time of his passing, Herschel was a Past Master of Capitol Lodge #8 and a 32nd Degree Sublime Prince of Peninsular #44 Consistory in Lansing, Michigan. Each activity was an expression of his appreciation for life's myriad gifts and an opportunity to connect with others in fellowship and "friendly" competition.

Herschel's legacy is cherished by his loving family: including his sons, Keith (Rina) Megginson, Kirk Megginson, James Roper, Theodore (Nana) Roper, and Herschel Roper; his daughters, Beschelle (Michael Fauble) Lockhart, Talia (Xenos) Richardson, Keowa (Gilbert) Vasquez, Kyre (Jonathan) Blair; his siblings, Emma Barber, Gary (Charlotte) Roper, and Sally Murchison. He is also survived by: Bessie Roper, Ralph Megginson, Steve Megginson, Nick Lockhart and Beth Roper; along with 29 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews, and loved ones. He now joins: his beloved parents, Thomelia and Theodore Roper; his brother-in-law, Cicero Barber; his grandmother, Allie Cooper; and his granddaughter, Nina Fauble, in the heavenly realm.

As we bid farewell to Herschel James Roper, we do so with hearts full of gratitude for the blessing of his presence in our lives. May his soul find eternal peace. May his memory continue to inspire acts of kindness and love in us all. May he be remembered for all of his days as a loving, caring, generous man earning the everlasting forgiveness and love of the Lord. Having been met by all his beloved friends and family embracing him upon his heavenly arrival. Above all, may he never lose another game of chess, golf, or cards for all eternity.

Arrangements for Mr. Roper are as follows: