With heavy hearts we announce the passing our beloved Wife, Mother, and Grandmother, Billie Rose (Hempstead) Roper, "Billie", 81 of Lucedale, on Sunday, December 1, 2019 at her home.

Born July 2, 1938 in Lucedale, she was a daughter of the late Horace and Mary Hempstead. She was preceded in death by her husband of 35 years, Chief Master Sergeant Mark W. Roper, Jr (Butch) on March 7, 1993, her daughter Robin, brother, Elwood Hempstead, and two sisters, Bonnie Kirkland and Euna Mae Ellicott.

Billie was a graduate of Murphy High School. She married Mark and they raised four daughters, and one son. Billie moved back to Lucedale in 1984 and became involved in Rocky Creek Baptist Church. One of her greatest joys was being a caregiver for others. In her spare time, she enjoyed gardening and planting flowers.

A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, she is survived by her four children, Vickie Capello (Steve), of Lucedale, Toni Hollinger (Billy) of Lucedale, Ellen Rentschler (Randy) of Mobile, and Mark W. Roper III (Josh), of Lucedale, grandchildren, Stephanie, Steve Jr., Jason, Christopher, Jennifer, Jamie, Bobbi, Samantha, Nicole, Danielle, Kevin and Randy Jr., and 16 great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild, nieces Georgia Wilson, Cindy Duggins, Debbie Mathis and nephew Terry Hempstead.

A viewing to honor the life of Billie will be held on December 6, 2019 from 9:30am-11:00am at Rocky Creek Baptist Church followed by a funeral service at 11:00am. Interment will be in the Rocky Creek Cemetery.

Sigler Funeral Home, 4248 Main Street, Lucedale, MS 39452, 601-947-3112, is in charge of arrangements.