HOOPES, JAMES G. III 40 - of Northfield passed away suddenly on Wednesday, September 12, 2012. Jim was born in Atlantic City on August 16, 1972 and was raised in Ventnor. He graduated from Holy Spirit High School in 1990 and then Albright College in 1994. At Albright, Jim played basketball, set the school's rebounding record and was recently honored as a member of the Albright College All Century Team. He later went on to obtain his Master's Degree from Seton Hall University. Jim was preceded in death by his father, James G. Hoopes, Jr. Jim is survived by his devoted wife and one true love, Merry, and two loving sons, Jayson and Joey. Jim is also survived by his adoring mother Cathy, sister Lisa (Drew) Gibson, Father-in-Law Joseph Rich, Jr., sister in law Melissa (Greg) Calderone, nieces Isabella, Kaylee, and Kendall, nephew Christian and many close and loyal friends. Jim toured the United States playing professional basketball with the Washington Generals. He then went on to teach Spanish and coach basketball at Holy Spirit High School while working summers at the Greenhouse in Margate. In November 1998, Jim graduated from the 118th New Jersey State Police class. He proudly and honorably served as a State Trooper for 14 years. Jim spent time with all his boys enjoying numerous sporting trips and events no matter how distant. He was an inspiring volunteer in Northfield who made a difference in the lives of countless children. He coached many teams to Championships in football, basketball, and baseball. Jim mastered the art of living. He brought an unparalleled enthusiasm, dedication and passion to all aspects of his life. He was a devoted family man whose greatest love was his wife and sons. Jim Hoopes made the world a better place. Visitations will be held Monday, September 17th at St. Gianna Beretta Molla Parish â€" St. Bernadette Church, 1421 New Rd., Northfield from 6:00PM-8:30PM with a Youth Visitation in jerseys from 5:30PM-6:00PM A visitation will be held Tuesday, September 18th 9:30AM-11:00AM followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00AM. Burial will be private at Holy Cross Cemetery, Mays Landing. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Jayson and Joseph Hoopes Scholarship Fund at PO Box 172, Linwood, NJ 08221. Arrangements by George H. Wimberg Funeral Home.
Published in The Press of Atlantic City from September 15 to September 17, 2012
