William Roper, Jr., age 73, of Tewksbury, a beloved member of a well-known Tewksbury family, passed away on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 with his Son, brother and best friend by his side.
He was the eldest son of the late William “Bill” Roper, Sr. and Isabelle G. “Isie” (Chandler) Roper.
Affectionately known as Billy or Grampa Bill, he was the father of James W. Roper and his wife Nicole of Dracut, MA, and a proud grandfather to Jason M. Roper.
Billy was the brother of John P. Roper and his wife Claudia of Tewksbury, Nancy A. Boutet and her husband Keith of Westford, and Alice M. Saunders and her husband Daniel of Nashua as well as the late Thomas M. Roper of Littleton and his surviving wife Jackie.
He leaves behind a large and loving family, including numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and many cherished friends. Among them, his best friend Leo MacDonald and Leo's wife Paula from Tewksbury, who held a special place in his life. Together, they shared countless moments filled with chaos, laughter, adventures, and delicious meals.
As an avid outdoorsman, Billy found joy in hunting the woods of Weare, NH, with family and friends. His passion for the outdoors was matched by his dedication to the Tewksbury-Wilmington Elks Post #2070, where he was honored with the “Elk of the Year” award in 2024.
Billy's legacy of friendship and community spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Family and friends will be received on Wednesday, April 9, from 3-8 p.m., at the Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee Street, Tewksbury. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, April 10, at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home, followed by interment of his ashes to be held at Tewksbury Cemetery, 172 East Street, Tewksbury.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation at www.curemeso.org/