Born in 1849 in St Mary Redcliffe parish, the son of Richard Colston Roper I and brother of Richard Colston Roper II (RPR, 71C).
| 1863 | 6 Aug. John Colston Roper, son of Richard Colston Roper of the city of Bristol, potter, puts himself to William Augustus Frederick Powell, of the said city, stoneware potter, for 7 years. No premium. Friends find everything. Wages 4s, 5s, 7s and during the remainder of the term one half earnings (Ao). |
| 1871 | Stoneware potter, 5 Pools Crescent, Bedminster (24), living with his father and siblings (71C). |
| 1873 | 29 Jul. Stone ware potter, late apprentice of W.A.J. Powell, stone ware potter, a free burgess. Indenture of apprentice dated 6 Aug 1865 duly endorsed by master and produced (FM). |
| 1881 | Stoneware potter, 18 Pooles Crescent, Bedminster (34), living with his wife Eliza (34), born in Pawlett, Somerset, and son John C. (4), born in Bristol (81C). |
| 1891 | Stoneware potter, 79 Park Street, Bedminster (44), living with his wife Eliza (44) and son John Colston (14), born in Bedminster (91C). |
| 1901 | Stoneware potter, 77 Park Street, Knowle (54), living with his wife Eliza (54) and son John C. (24) (01C). |
| 1911 | His wife was a widow and an inmate at the Bristol City Workhouse, Stapleton (11C). |