Deacon Ray Hopper

Ray Hopper, 92, of Charlotte, NC, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026 at Wellstar Care in Marietta, GA.

With profound joy and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Deacon Ray Hopper, devoted brother, father, grandfather, uncle and friend who stepped into eternal glory on March 06, 2026 at Wellstar Hospice Care in Marietta, GA.

Born in Spartanburg County April 1, 1933 to the late Mack and Annie Sue Anderson Hopper, at the age of 18, Ray embarked on a journey of purpose, enlisting in the United States Army,laying the foundation for a life of service and determination. Following his military career, he explored diverse pursuits across North Carolina until he discovered his forever haven in Charlotte and embarked on a fulfilling journey at Bigger Brothers, becoming one of the first African American supervisors, inspiring others with his leadership, and remained committed until his well-deserved retirement. His passions also flourished in gardening and lawn care bringing him joy and serenity. At the remarkable age of 89 he embarked on a new chapter in Hiram Ga., beginning an extraordinary journey with Dexter and Yvette, where he courageously started anew. Though he never had biological children, love knew no bounds when it came to Dexter as he nurtured him from infancy, embracing him as his own son. At the remarkable age of 90, he devoted himself to service as a deacon at Rock of Faith Deliverance Temple in Hiram Ga.

He was preceded in death by his late wife Minnie Hopper. His brothers and sisters, J.D., Ernest, Mack, Edward, Newton, Earl, and Dean, Henry. Maggie Miller, Angie Lou Russell, Jo Ann, Palmer, Edna Hamrick, Agnes Hopper, Montrose Lilly,

Left to cherish his memories are his sister Lois (Eugene) Lockhart of Charlotte NC. And a host of other relatives and friends. With boundless compassion, he uplifted countless lives, tenderly guiding each as a cherished reflection of his own including nieces, nephews, children, grandchildren, and great grands.