Jay LaRoy Roper, 88, of Idaho Falls, died Saturday, March 18, 2017, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center.

Jay was born on March 1, 1929, to LaRoy and Hulda Roper, in Preston, Idaho. He grew up in Thatcher, Idaho, on the Roper Ranch until August 1946, when the family moved to Idaho Falls.

He joined the United States Army on November 22, 1946, and served until April 20, 1948. After serving he enjoyed being a member of the Bonneville County Veterans Team.

On August 28, 1948, he married Gladys Audrey Owen in Idaho Falls. On June 26, 1965, their marriage was solemnized in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple. Together they raised six children.

Jay worked for Idaho Falls School District 91 until he retired in 1989.

He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He enjoyed being part of the American Legion and VFW.

Jay enjoyed camping, fishing and watching the professional bull riding on television.

He is survived by his wife, Gladys Roper, of Idaho Falls; his sons: Jay L. (Judith) Roper Jr., of Mesa, Arizona, Terry Roper, of Yuma, Arizona; his daughters: Chris (David) Strahle, Susan (James) Clayton, Janet Roper, and Vicki (JR) Ybarra, all of Idaho Falls, Idaho; 15 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, LaRoy and Hulda Roper; his brother, Don Roper; two sisters: Gwen and Earlene, a granddaughter, and a great-granddaughter.

Funeral arrangements will be at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 24, 2017, at the Idaho Falls LDS 14th Ward chapel, 651 Gladstone, with Bishop Dean Ward officiating. The family will visit with friends from 6-8:00 p.m., Thursday, March 23, 2017, at Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First Street, Idaho Falls, and one hour prior to services at the church. Burial will be at Fielding Memorial Park Cemetery; Military Rites will be performed by the Bonneville County Veterans and Idaho Military Honor Guard. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com.