He was born in Wilson County, Tennessee, to the late James Virgil Hopper and Mary Bradshaw Hopper. Jim graduated from DuPont High School and earned his Bachelor’s degree in engineering at Middle Tennessee State University. He proudly served our country in the United States Army and was a faithful member of Old Hickory Church of Christ. He retired from AVCO as an industrial engineer and also retired from TDOT. Jim enjoyed golfing at Old Hickory Country Club, yardwork, cheering on the University of Tennessee, spending time with his family, and being “Pa Hop” to his grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by two siblings, Linda Bush and Mike Hopper.
Jim is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Barbara Hopper; children, Curtis (Emilse) Hopper and Cindy (Mike) House; five grandchildren, Dustin Hopper, Dylan Hopper, Connor House, Sam House, and Valentina Forero; three siblings, Betty Adams, Kathy (Stu) Kitts, and Norman (Margie) Hopper; devoted caregiver, Sharon Keen, and several extended family members and friends.
The Celebration of Jim’s Life will be at Hermitage Funeral Home on Saturday, December 29, 2018 at 11:30 am with Bro. Don Loftis officiating.
Interment will follow at Hermitage Memorial Gardens.
Visitation will be on Friday, December 28, 2018 from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm, and on Saturday, December 29, 2018 from 10:30 am until the time of the service.
Serving as pallbearers are Dylan Hopper, Connor House, Mike House, Norman Hopper, Sonny Russ, and Billy Springer. Honorary pallbearers are Dustin Hopper, Sam House, Merle Short, James Ray, Al Becker, Ronnie Smith, David England, and Dr. B.J. Smith.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alive Hospice, 1718 Patterson Street, Nashville, Tennessee 37203, or to the Alzheimer’s Association Mid South Chapter, 4825 Trousdale Drive, Suite 220, Nashville, Tennessee 37220.
