Eloise Loper

Eloise Loper, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and cherished member of the Yarbo community, peacefully passed away on December 19, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on April 6, 1939 to parents Bud and Sybil (Black) Smith. She spent most of her childhood in Loxley, Alabama. Eloise lived a life filled with passion, love, and joy. She was a fireball whose vibrant spirit brightened the lives of all who knew her.

Eloise was an exceptional mother and a gifted cook, renowned for her delicious homemade dishes, including her famous dressing, creamy potato salad, and comforting chicken and rice. Her culinary talents were matched only by her love for family, which remained at the center of her heart. Eloise took pride in nurturing her children and sharing laughter and love around the dinner table, where the warmth of her kitchen brought everyone together.

A woman of strong opinions, Eloise always spoke her mind, earning the respect and admiration of those around her. She loved to sing, filling her home and yard with melodies that echoed her vibrant personality. An avid gardener, she took great delight in caring for her yard and especially adored her ferns, which flourished under her attentive care. Eloise enjoyed working alongside the Odom's for many years at Andrew's Hardware in Chatom.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Bud and Sybil Smith; sisters, Tiny Sue and Lou; brothers, Bo Smith, Wesley Smith, Eugene Smith, and Earl Smith; great-grandson, Jasper Blake Loper.

Eloise is survived by her beloved husband of 67 years, Joseph Loper; daughters, Gail (Jack) Rhodes, Wanda (Steve) Wallace, and Brenda Street; son, Joseph "Mikey" (Sissy) Loper; grandchildren, Denina Anderson, Keith (Sandy) Rhodes, April (Andrew) Carpenter, Sherry(Brad) Prather, Clifton (Chalsey) Loper; 18 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Clifton Loper, Keith Rhodes, Matthew Loper, Brad Prather, Ray Glass, and Steve Wallace.

The family will honor Eloise's remarkable life with a public viewing at the Yarbo Assembly of God on December 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM. Friends and loved ones are invited to come together to remember the wonderful woman she was. Following the viewing, a graveside service will take place at the Yarbo Assembly of God Cemetery at 11:00 AM, with Bro. Mikey Loper and Bro. Jack Rhodes officiating.

In her passing, Eloise leaves behind a rich legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. She will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to share in her life. May her spirit live on in the hearts of those she touched.