Earl Wesley Hopely, Jr.

Earl Wesley Hopely, Jr., born on June 4, 1947, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, departed this world on December 28, 2024. Earl resided in Philadelphia and Bucks County, Pennsylvania for over 50 years, spending the past 22 years in Blakeslee, Pennsylvania. Earl lived a life adorned with a passion for both work and leisure, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege to know him. He was ever the ‘social butterfly’, always surrounded with family and friends, knowing someone anywhere he went, and always keeping everyone he knew in laughter and good spirits.

A veteran of the United States Navy, Earl was very proud to serve on the maiden voyage of the USS John F. Kennedy (CV-67), traveling to many ports around the world. He served as a trained reconnaissance photographer and carried those photography skills throughout his life for professional and personal use. 

Upon completion of his service in the Navy, Earl embraced the art of photography as a studio and wedding photographer capturing fleeting moments with an artist's eye. Over the years Earl was also employed as a steel worker at Philadelphia Steel and Wire, as a valued manager at various local retail businesses, and retired from Firmenich, a flavor and fragrance company, before moving to the Poconos.

Earl’s richness of character was underscored by his deep-seated interests. He was an avid Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies, and NASCAR fan. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and was an accomplished bowler, achieving the remarkable feat of a perfect 300 game! His interests included cars, electronics and staying current with the latest audio/visual equipment. Music held a special place in his heart, with a particular fondness for the Doo Wop groups of the 50’s and 60’s. His love for music amassed an impressive record collection. He loved sharing his latest musical interests and finds with his family and friends.

Above all, Earl was a dedicated family man and his most cherished roles in life were Husband, Dad, and Pop-Pop. Earl's legacy resonates profoundly within the hearts of his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Evelyne (Niemax) Hopely, his children, Angela (Jeffrey) Pupo of Yardley and Thomas Hopely of Blakeslee as well as his grandchildren Priscilla, Domenic and Giuseppe Pupo, who brought him great joy. He also leaves behind his brother, James (Deborah) Hopely of Jacksonville, Florida, and sisters Lorraine (Ken) Prehl and Dawn (Tom) Simmer, both of Philadelphia and his sister-in-law Sylvia (Len) Kanatsky, of Yucaipa, California, in addition to several nieces and nephews.

Earl now rests in eternal peace, reunited with his parents, Earl W. Hopely, Sr. and Anna D'Ambrosio Hopely, who nurtured his journey from the beginning. We will gather to honor his life and service with military honors at Washington Crossing National Cemetery in Newtown, Pennsylvania, on January 8, 2025, commencing at 10:45 am. There, we will honor a man who not only lived but thrived, leaving behind a legacy rich in love, laughter, and profound memories.