John H. Hopper, Jr. passed away peacefully at his home in Nashville, TN, on August 1, 2025, surrounded by the family he so deeply loved. Born on April 30, 1942, in Cadiz, KY. John was the son of the late John H. Hopper, Sr., and Margaret Oliver Hopper.
A proud graduate of Caldwell County High School, John began his college career playing football at the University of Kentucky. Though a career-ending injury cut that dream short, he carried the discipline and drive of an athlete throughout his life.
John was a faithful leader of his family, modeling hard work, humility, and deep faith. His quiet strength and unwavering devotion resulted in admiration and respect from those who knew him well. He was known for working hard-but loving even harder. Lovingly known by his grandchildren as “Popo,” John lived a life marked by loyalty, laughter, grit, and grace. He found joy in small things and purpose in big ones. He was a constant source of encouragement and wisdom, especially to his grandchildren, whose lives he never missed a moment of-whether it was a school performance, a sporting event, or a simple phone call. If they were there, Popo was too.
John was married to his childhood sweetheart, Sara Dee Young Hopper, and their love story spanned 67 years these final days, Sara never left his side, and every member of his family surrounded him, honoring the same steadfast loyalty he had shown them all their lives.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Sara; his son, John Denton Hopper, Sr. (Tracy); his daughter, Marian Katherine Hopper; and his five grandchildren: Sara-Anne Gatos Hopper, John Denton Hopper, Jr., Bradley Christopher Jackson, Jr., Patrick Harrison Jackson, and Wilson Oliver Jackson. He is also survived by his beloved nieces and nephew.
A service celebrating John’s life will be held at Morgan’s Funeral Home in his hometown of Princeton, KY, on Wednesday, August 6th.
Memorial visitation will be held from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at Morgan’s Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Southside Baptist Church, 205 Nichols Street, Princeton, KY., or a charity of your choice.
You may light a candle or leave a message at www.morgansfuneralhome.com
