He was born April 15, 1933, in Liberty, Miss., to Louis and Earnstine (Jackson) Sleepers.

He is survived by five sons, Lionell Caldwell of Mississippi, Rodney (Tanya) Sleepers of South Bend, Marise (Barbara) Sleepers and Robert L. Sleepers Jr., both of Elkhart, and Michael Cummins of Fort Wayne; five daughters, Isabell Myrie of Adelanto, Calif., Louise (Jesse) Griffin and Delphine Sleepers, both of South Bend, and Darlene Sleepers and Barbara (Blake) Miller, both of Elkhart; 22 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two brothers and one sister.

Friends may call one hour prior to the 1 p.m. Saturday funeral service at Agape Missionary Baptist Church. Minister Jesse Griffin of New Life Fellowship Ministries, South Bend, will officiate. Burial will be in Prairie Street Cemetery. Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Sleepers retired from Leer Industries in 1982, where he worked as a truck driver for 25 years and later as a plant supervisor. Upon retirement, he became an independent transportation provider for anyone in the community that needed assistance.

Memorials may be given to a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.billingsfuneralhome.com.