David William Hooper

David William Hooper, a devoted public servant, cherished brother, uncle, and lifelong fixture of the Grand Prairie community, passed away on May 20, 2026, at the age of 72 at the Avalon Memory Care Facility in Arlington, Texas.

Born on Christmas Day in 1953, David was a true son of Grand Prairie. He grew up attending Austin Elementary and John Adams Junior High before graduating from Grand Prairie High School in 1972. A gifted athlete, David excelled in both football and basketball, ultimately earning a football scholarship to New Mexico University. Raised in faith, he was a deeply active member of the First Baptist Church throughout his formative years.

Before finding his ultimate calling, David spent several years working at Southland Funeral Home, an experience that deepened his natural empathy for people during their most difficult moments. That empathy found its perfect home when he joined the Grand Prairie Police Department. David proudly served as a police officer for 33 years, viewing his career not just as a job, but as a profound honor and a way to give back to the city that had given him so much.

For 23 of those years, David served as the School Resource Officer at his beloved alma mater, Grand Prairie High School. He was instrumental in shaping the community's youth, initiating both the D.A.R.E. and Crimestoppers programs. As an officer in the schools, David became a legendary mentor. When students stumbled, he chose grace over a grievance; he believed in the power of second chances and quiet encouragement, steering countless young lives back on track with his characteristic kindness.

Beyond the badge, David was a man who embraced life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid fisherman who was happiest with a line in the water, and he was a master storyteller. David never met a stranger, possessed an innate ability to make friends wherever he went, and could captivate a room with his warmth and wit. David loved his Longhorns and his beloved Gophers. David loved all of his dogs but his loyal companion, Landry, was special to David.

David was preceded in death by his loving parents, George Drayton Hooper and Lilyan Hooper.

He leaves behind a family who will miss his stories and big heart dearly: his sister, Jeanne Shouse; his brother, Richard Hooper; his nephew, Cody Shouse and his wife Stephanie; his niece, Piper; and his two nephews, Bishop and Thatcher.

David’s legacy lives on in the thousands of students he guided, the community he protected, and the family who loved him.

Visitation will be held at Bean-Massey-Burge Funeral Home Beltline Road, 2951 S. Belt Line Road, Grand Prairie, TX 75052, US, on June 1, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Bean-Massey-Burge Funeral Home Beltline Road, 2951 S. Belt Line Road, Grand Prairie, TX 75052, US, on June 1, 2026, at 11:00 am.