James Edward Hopper

James Edward Hopper age 88 of Forest City died Thursday, January 21, 2021 at his home.

Born August 2, 1932 in Rutherford County, North Carolina, he was the fifth of six children of the late Levi P. Morton Hopper and Lillian Smith Hopper. He was a 1950 graduate of Harris High School, was a United States Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict and later retired from Tanner Company with more than 25 years of service. He was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church of Forest City and of the Gate Sunday School Class.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Carolyn Monroe Hopper in 2012, two brothers, Jack Hopper and Dewitt Hopper, and two sisters, Annie Hopper Padgett and Frances Hopper Carey.

Surviving are his daughter, Melissa Hopper Wilson and husband, Jimmy of Shelby, North Carolina; two sons, Jeff M. Hopper and wife, Midge of Rutherfordton, North Carolina and Alan T. Hopper and wife, Adina of Spindale, North Carolina; a sister, Freida Hopper McBrayer of Southern Pines, North Carolina; nine grandchildren, Kristen Gallucci, Justin Enloe, Farren Upton, Caitlin Wooton, Stephanie Bostic, Ally Kirby, Alex Wilson, Lee Wilson and Jenna Wilson; and six great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held Tuesday, January 26, 2021 at 4 o’clock at the Eternal Hills Memorial Park with the Reverend Faye Herbin and Kristin Holstrom officiating.

The family will receive friends Tuesday from 2 until 3:30 at The Padgett and King Mortuary.

For the safety of those attending visitation, mask and social distancing are requested.  Please note that the arrangements above are correct.  Due to the concerns of Covid, the family has changed to a visitation followed by graveside service in lieu of a chapel service. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church Scholarship Fund, 341 East Main Street, Forest City, North Carolina 28043.

An online registry is available at www.padgettking.com.  The Padgett & King Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.