Willie "Billye" Roper

Willie Belle Brewer Roper, affectionately known as “Billye,” was born on July 29, 1932, and passed away on March 13, 2026, at the age of 93½. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward D. Roper, Jr., her parents, Brown and Elsie Brewer, her sisters, Myrtle M. B. Johnson and Lucy B. Tillman, and her brother, Brown Brewer, Jr.

Born with grace, determination, and quiet strength, Billye grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina. A proud 1950 honors graduate of Second Ward High School, she became a trailblazer in her community. In 1953, she made history as the first African American woman hired by Green Tree at Tate Brown in the Ladies Department, becoming the first Black woman to work “out front” in the public eye. Her dignity and presence helped open doors for countless others.

Widowed in 1965, Billye was left to raise her two young children while working during the day, caring for her family, and attending night school. Her resilience led her to a distinguished career in banking. In 1966, she became the first African American woman hired by First Citizens Bank and Trust Company in Charlotte, where she served with excellence and integrity for 32 years until her retirement in 1998.

A lifetime member of Greater Mount Moriah Primitive Baptist Church, Billye served faithfully as Treasurer for more than 35 years, President of the Senior Missionary Circle for 13 years, and Sunday School Teacher of Intermediate females for over 15 years. Her life was defined by unwavering faith, quiet leadership, and generous service.

She is survived by her son, Edward D. Roper, III (Rev. Jacqueline), and her daughter, Rev. Mildred A. McCullough (Elder Willie); ten grandchildren, including Chuck D. Connor, Kenneth D. Roper (Narissa), Scheldon J. Connor (Amanda), Edward D. Roper, IV (Yelena), Joshua D. Roper (Nicole), Brittany D. Streeter (Steven), and “C.J.” Polite Jr., along with blended grandchildren Fred Price (Netta), Rickey Price (Rev. Dianna), and Monty McCullough; thirteen great-grandchildren; seven nieces, including Javonne Brewer, Thomasina Lockhart, Susan House, Deborah House, Min. Teresa Moss (Bobby), Deacon Michele Crowder (Rev. Melvin), and Maria Johnson; two nephews, Tony Tillman and Carlos Fletcher (Sharon); and a host of beloved cousins, god-given family members, and friends.