Dr. Robert Lee Graper, Sr. was born on March 11, 1944, to the late Atlyne White Graper and Willie James Graper. Born to a sharecropping family, Dr. Graper's life would become a testament to the power of faith, education, leadership, and service. From his early years in Baker County, he developed a strong commitment to education, and to the community that shaped his character. 

He attended school in East Baker and graduated from Monroe High School. His pursuit of higher education was both extensive and distinguished. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Albany State University, a Master of Education from Georgia State University, an Education Specialist degree from Valdosta State University, and a Doctorate from South Carolina State University.

 He was also a proud member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. A Career Dedicated to Education Education was not simply Dr. Graper's profession, it was a central part of his life's purpose.

 He began his career as a teacher at Albany High School, where he served in the classroom for several years. In time, his commitment to students and education would lead him into school administration. He served as assistant principal and later became the principal of Radium Middle School. 

Throughout his career, Dr. Graper’s connection to his roots remained strong. He eventually returned to Baker County, where he served as the principal of Baker County High School. In 2008, he led the school's senior class to graduation; this marked a historic moment, as the school had not seen a graduating class in 26 years. 

The milestone is significant to Dr. Graper’s professional legacy, and also to the history of Baker County. Following his distinguished career in K–12 education and administration, Dr. Graper transitioned into higher education. He returned to Albany State University as a Professor in the History Department. Dr. Graper was deeply loved and respected by his coworkers and students; he was well known as the history teacher everyone wanted to have. He left a lasting impression on generations of students through his knowledge, personality, and dedication to teaching. After officially retiring from Albany State University, Dr. Graper's heart once again turned toward his roots and his community. Community Legacy In his later years, Dr. Graper remained committed to preserving and honoring the history of the community that helped shape him. 

He served as a correspondent and leader for the East Baker Historical Society, continuing his lifelong dedication to education, history, and community service. He was actively involved in the Society’s programs, particularly its student mentorship efforts. He took pride in investing in young people, and supporting initiatives that benefited others. 

Through this work, he continued to educate and serve, leaving a positive impact on the East Baker community, and helping to preserve its story for generations to come. Faith & Church Ministry Dr. Graper's faith was another cornerstone of his life. He found Christ at an early age and faithfully served in the church. He was a member and deacon at First Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church, and he also served at First Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church. His work in the church was dutiful, and his commitment to ministry was evident in the time and service he gave to others. 

For Dr. Graper, the church held a special place in his heart. The church was his heart. His faith, service, and dedication to his church family became an important part of the legacy he leaves behind. A Lasting Legacy Dr. Graper lived a life marked by purpose and service. He devoted decades to school and community leadership; his professional journey reflects a lifelong commitment to education and to the people of Southwest Georgia. Yet beyond his many professional accomplishments, Dr. Graper's greatest legacy can be found in the lives he touched: the students he taught, the educators he mentored, the churches he served, the history he helped preserve, and the family and friends who loved him. 

Dr. Robert Lee Graper, Sr. leaves behind a legacy of faith, education, leadership, and service that will continue to live on through the people who had the privilege of knowing him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Atlyne White Graper and Willie James Graper; and older sister Willie Jean Harris. He leaves to mourn his passing and to treasure his memories, his wife Betty Graper, children Robert Graper, Rodriguez Graper, Willie Jackson, Regina Jackson Glover (Marshaun), grandchildren Morghan Graper, Kayla Graper, Ke’Von Brown, Lizzie Glover, Benjamin Glover, His sister Deloris Hicks, his brother David Lee Graper, his cousin and special friend David Wright, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends