In Loving Memory of
Reverend Jeffery Lamar Dunson Rosser
“Well done, thou good and faithful servant…” – Matthew 25:23

With hearts heavy but full of gratitude, we celebrate the extraordinary life and heavenly homegoing of Reverend Jeffery Lamar Dunson Rosser, beloved pastor, teacher, mentor, and pillar of faith in the Roanoke community. On the evening of March 22, 2025, around 6:30 PM, Reverend Rosser peacefully transitioned from labor to reward, leaving a legacy of love, leadership, and lasting spiritual impact.

Born on May 22, 1954, in Roanoke, Alabama, to the late Ruby Nell (Lane) Dunson and Willie Frank Heflin, Jr., Jeffery’s life was divinely orchestrated from the very beginning. Though his early years were shaped by transitions and loss, the Lord provided him with the nurturing care of the late H.T. and Susie Mae Rosser.  The Rossers are duly noted as the historic co-founders of Alabama's only black-owned skilled care facility at that time.  They lovingly embraced and raised him as their son and introduced him to a life rooted in Christian discipline, community service, and love.

Reverend Rosser was educated in both the segregated and integrated school systems of Randolph County and became one of the early African-American students to integrate Handley High School, graduating with the Class of 1972. He pursued higher education at Southern Union State Community College, Tuskegee University, and Talladega College, pledging Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity along the way.   After completing his education, he worked alongside his mother as Assistant Administrator of Rosser Nursing Home, and after her passing in April,1989, assumed full management of the facility.

In 1972, he married his childhood sweetheart, Miss Johnnie Sue Trammell of Roanoke. The following year, they welcomed their first daughter, Tedra, into the world, and later, their family grew with the birth of their second daughter, Tyronica. Their journey together was marked by both joy and sorrow. On March 23, 1985, they experienced the heartbreaking loss of their infant son, Jeffery Jr. Less than two years later, on December 20, 1986, his beloved wife, Johnnie also passed away. This period marked a profoundly dark and difficult chapter in Jeffery’s life.

His calling to the Gospel came after his season of deep sorrow, having lost both his infant son and his first wife, the late Johnnie Sue Trammell Dunson. Out of this valley of grief, God birthed a mighty preacher. On November 2, 1986, he preached his first sermon, launching a lifetime of ministry marked by conviction, compassion, and commitment.

Over the years, Reverend Rosser faithfully shepherded the flocks at Friendship Baptist Church (Bacon Level), County Line Baptist Church (Wadley), and for over 20 years served with unwavering dedication as Pastor of Saint Paul Baptist Church in Roanoke. Even in declining health, his spirit remained strong. He had already set the date, for his retirement from active ministry on the fourth Sunday in April 2025, just weeks before his peaceful departure.

A spiritual leader beyond the pulpit, Reverend Rosser served the East Alabama Union District Association as Secretary under Moderator Melvin Owens, and was an active presence in numerous civic and educational efforts, including a long-standing appointment to the Roanoke City Board of Education.   He was also a member of Roanoke's Western Lodge #538 Free & Accepted Prince Hall Masons. 

In 1988, he found love again with Vrylene Janice Walker, with whom he shared 36 years of marriage until her passing in July 2024. Their love was one of unity, mutual encouragement, and unwavering devotion—an example to all who knew them.

Reverend Rosser’s life was one of many layers—devoted father, grandfather, community leader, and child of God. He is now reunited in glory with those who preceded him: his wives Johnnie Sue and Janice, his infant son Jeffery Jr., brothers Samuel Dunson, Andre Grady, sisters, Alberta Esters, Margerie, and several other predeceased siblings, daughters Arneta and Deiatra, and great-grandchildren DeKari, Jordyn, and Mendece.

He leaves behind a vast and loving family:
Children: Tedra Carlisle (Ken) Five Points, AL, Tyronica Dunson (Phillip Nolan) Roanoke, AL,  Shawn Starks (Kashla) Franiklin, GA, Michael Kilpatrick Roanoke, AL, Kim Weaver Douglasville, GA, Michelle Haynes (Tommy) Roanoke, AL;   
Grandchildren: Trae, Tae, Zae, Tydarius, Shonta, Carlas, Chris, Ra’Shay (James), Kandis, Taneika, & Cheresa;
A host of Great-grandchildren and  Great-great-grandchildren;
One loving brother: Ricky Heflin, Sr. of Roanoke, AL;
Two beloved sisters: Lucretia "Carter" Lane of Roanoke. and Sharon Brady Lee of Panama City, FL;
Three Godchildren: Quandale Trammell, Tony Shealey, and Lynn Trammell;

A host of nieces, nephews, and countless spiritual sons and daughters, cousins, extended relatives, and church family.

He is remembered not just for what he preached — but how he lived: with humility, honor, humor, and holy boldness.

Reverend Rosser made his final arrangements with Clark Memorial Funeral Service, leaving behind clear guidance and a legacy of planning to ensure his family’s peace. He will be laid to rest at Rock Mills Baptist Church Cemetery, beside his beloved Janice, as was his wish.

To those who mourn: grieve not as those without hope. For Reverend Rosser has now taken his place among the elders, his crown laid at the feet of the Savior he so faithfully served.

"To God be the glory for the life, legacy, and labor of Reverend Jeffery D. Rosser."

Acknowledgement

The family of Reverend Jeffery L. Dunson Rosser expresses our deepest appreciation to everyone for all the acts of love each of you have shown during this difficult time.  We also extend special words of thanks to Reverend and Mrs. Willie C. Houston, Compassus Hospice, and Vera Williams.  Your prayers and visits are greatly appreciated and we ask that you continue to think of us in the days to come.  May God bless each of you.

Repast

Immediately following interment, we invite our friends and loved ones to return to the dining facilities of First Baptist Church and join us as we fellowship with food.

— The Family —

Announcement

The 20th Anniversary Observance and Retirement From Active Ministry of Reverend Jeffery L. Dunson Rosser, will be observed on the 4th Sunday in April (April 27, 2025) at 1:00 pm at the Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Chruch, 1144 Henry Street, Roanoke, Alabama. The Public is invited to attend.

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