James R. Hopper

MINERAL RIDGE — James “Jim” R. Hopper, 75, passed away Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026, at St. Elizabeth Boardman Hospital, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family.

Jim was born Nov. 14, 1950, a son of the late Andrew and Sarah Burchfield Hopper. He was raised in Lake Milton and was a lifelong area resident.

He graduated from Jackson-Milton High School and proudly served his country in the United States Navy.

Throughout his working years, Jim held various positions, including truck driver and locksmith, and worked at several manufacturing plants before retiring.

Jim attended Queen of Heaven Parish, St. Mary Church in Mineral Ridge. He enjoyed fishing, camping and traveling to Tennessee. A true jack-of-all-trades, Jim was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. With his jovial personality and friendly nature, he never met a stranger and was a loyal friend whom others could always count on.

Jim had a great appreciation for nature and animals. He enjoyed tending to his flower garden, feeding the birds and spending time outdoors. He also loved dancing and photography, especially capturing memories at family gatherings. Above all, Jim cherished his family and took particular delight in spoiling his grandchildren.

Jim leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 51 years, Theresa A. Strah Hopper, whom he married Nov. 16, 1974; his daughter, Theresa Marie (Rodney) Gearheart of Greenwich; his son, James R. Hopper Jr. of Niles; three grandsons, Jesse, Luke and Owen; his siblings, Andy (Joyce) Hopper of Garrettsville, Jeanette (Tom) Krygowski of Warren and Jerry (Diana) Hopper of Newton Falls; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his siblings, Eva Gray, Charles Edward Hopper, John Hopper and Dave Hopper.

Family and friends may call from 10 a.m. to noon Monday, Oct. 19, 2026, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown, where a funeral service will be held at noon.

Interment will follow in Kerr Cemetery in Mineral Ridge.