Sylvia Roper Dover

In Loving Memory of Sylvia Roper Dover December 16, 1943 – April 5, 2025 Sylvia Roper Dover, age 81, passed away peacefully on Saturday night, April 5, 2025, in her home, surrounded by her beloved family. A woman of enduring faith, deep love, and steadfast devotion, Sylvia lived a life that was a true reflection of grace and purpose. Born December 16, 1943, in Pickens County, South Carolina, Sylvia was the firstborn of the late Jake T. Roper and Opal Gilstrap Roper Bryant. She was also preceded in death by her stepfather, Wilton Bryant; her brother, Allen Roper; brother-in-law, Ray York; and a nephew, Matthew Roper. Sylvia is survived by her devoted husband of 63 years and 8 months, Robert Edward Dover. Together, they built a loving home and raised six children: Scott Dover (Caroline) of Piedmont, DeeDee Wilson (Harry) of Powdersville, Steve Dover (Joy) of Liberty, Brad Dover (April) of Liberty, Kim Coster (Mike) of Travelers Rest, and Kevin Dover (Alecia) of Liberty. She is also survived by 15 grandchildren—Patrick (Clare), Rebecca, Taylor (Yiliu), Chandler, Ethan, Austin, Adreanna, Scott, Jesse (Megan), Seth, Emma, Daniel (Mackenzie), Kelli (Tavonta), Kaitlyn (Robbie), and Bryant—and 15 great-grandchildren: Anderson, Carter, Nora, Rohan, Roma, Ashwin, Sachin, Suri, Maddie, Harmony, Peyton, Waylon, Riggins, Taytum, and Teagan. Sylvia is also lovingly remembered by her sisters, Linda York (Ray), and Debbie Roach (Steve); brothers, Jerry Roper (Myrna), Tim Roper (J.J), Dale Roper (Missy), Mark Roper; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. For over two decades, Sylvia worked for the School District of Pickens County, where she drove a school bus for special needs children. Her care and compassion for the students she transported was unwavering. She often said she hoped she made a positive difference in each of their lives—and there is no doubt that she did. A faithful and active member of East Pickens Baptist Church, Sylvia was especially passionate about ministering to the shut-ins through the CIA (Christians In Action) ministry. She found great joy in sharing the love of Christ through visits, prayer, and encouragement. Her greatest joy in life was spending time with her large and close-knit family. She was famous for baking birthday cakes and cookies for each child and grandchild, and for making every Christmas a cherished and meaningful celebration. Her fondest memory was every Christmas with her family around the altar she built and everyone placing their rock on the floor and stating what God had done for them in the past year and what they are thankful for. That family altar now sits at the base of her flagpole, a permanent symbol of her faith and her legacy. Sylvia also found peace in reading—especially her Bible—cooking for her grandkids and great-grandkids and creating memories at their beach house and on Florida beach trips. She and Robert also found deep fulfillment in serving as foster parents, opening their home and hearts to children in need. A celebration of Sylvia’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 2:00 PM at East Pickens Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park. Visitation will be held on Monday, April 14, 2025, at East Pickens Baptist Church from 5:30 PM until 8:00 PM. Flowers are accepted, and memorial donations in Sylvia’s honor may be made to East Pickens Baptist Church or to Bon Secours Hospice by Compassus. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Sylvia’s dedicated caregiver, Lola Rowland, and the entire hospice team for their compassionate care and support. Sylvia’s life was a radiant testimony of love, faith, and family. She touched the hearts of many and leaves behind a legacy that will continue to shine through generations. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Mountain View Funeral Home is serving the Dover family.

Sylvia Roper Dover

December 16, 1943 - April 5, 2025