Mary Rose Hopper

We lost the most thoughtful and courageous Mom, Grandmother, and Wife on June 25. Mary Rose “Chalo” Gallegos Hopper lost her 38 year battle with scleroderma (a brutal autoimmune disease) late June 25 at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Fort Myers, FL.

Mary is survived by her husband of 51 years, Larry Hopper; her only son, Donnie Hopper and his wife, Stephanie Hopper; her grandchildren Presley Hopper and Chloe Hopper; and a multitude of family and friends in Seguin and McQueeney and New Braunfels, Texas.

Mary was born in Texas, and was the proud daughter of Hortencia and Esteban Gallegos. Her parents both proceeded her in joining the Lord. Her brothers, Esteban, Jr. (Steve) and Guadalupe (Lupe), also proceeded her in joining the Lord. She was extremely proud of her Mexican heritage, and loved returning to Texas whenever she could. She loved Texas! Mary kept in close contact with her many relatives - she so loved family.

Growing up in Seguin, TX, Mary spent a few summers as a young girl working in the cotton fields as a migrant worker with her parents. Mary was always a hard worker. After graduating Seguin High School, she attended beauty school to become a beautician. Often times, she would use her hairdressing skills on her own family, giving us a perfect cut every time.

In her early 20’s, her life path took quite the turn, as she was blessed to meet the man she would marry, have a child with, and spend her entire life with. Mary and Larry were married in Texas at a ceremony and celebration like no other. They then moved to Fort Myers, FL, and in 1970, had their only child, Donald (Donnie). Mary and Larry were in their 51st year of marriage - we are so proud of them for showing us how love can endure.

Mary stayed at home with Donnie until he was ready for Kindergarten. She then began a fulfilling career as a teacher’s assistant at Riverside School in Fort Myers. She loved kids, and she loved working with kids with severe disabilities. Mary worked for 33 years in one school, Tanglewood Riverside in Fort Myers. She touched the lives of hundreds of children in such a positive way.

Once retired, all of her love quickly turned to her most cherished joys - her grandchildren, Presley and Chloe. Mary so loved every minute she could spend with either of them. Presley would spend many afternoons with her Grammy and PaPaw after she was picked up from day care and preschool. Grammy loved teaching and explaining the world to Presley.

Mary’s influences on all of us were significant and memorable. She loved music and dancing. She loved family. She loved flowers and plants and gardening. Mary lived with passion and purpose, and we are all so lucky to have had her in our lives for so many years.

Most recently, Mary gave of her time, volunteering one day each week at Cape Coral Hospital. She so wanted to give back in a meaningful way.

Mary clearly knew God as her Savior - she was so strong in her faith. Her Safe Harbor Community Church family gave her great comfort for many, many years. The last Bible verse read to her by her son…“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

Heaven has a new angel - how lucky God is today!

We love you Ma, Grammy, honey!!!