Billy Joe Hopper, 61

October 3, 1963 – January 22, 2025

“And to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we commanded you, so that you will behave properly toward outsiders and not be in any need.” 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12

Billy Joe Hopper, 61, pillar in his community, back bone of his family, and friend to many, departed this life peacefully Wednesday January 22, 2025, at North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, MS, surrounded by loved ones.

A Graveside Service will be at 11 AM Friday January 24, 2025, in Lowry Church Cemetery with Bro. Terry Ray Vuncannon and Bro. Branson Vuncannon officiating. Ripley Funeral Home will be in charge of arrangements.

Born in the Tippah County Hospital on October 3, 1963, Mr. Billy Joe was the son of the late Lavern and Ruby Pearl Walker Hopper. He received his education from Pine Grove High School and on December 20, 1985, married his beloved wife, Mrs. Johna Moody Hopper, who survives. Together they planted their roots in the Spouts Spring Community, were they built a family and raised three sons, which they were so proud of. Mr. Billy Joe was a hard worker and believer in the philosophy, “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” He was the proud owner and operator of BJ’s Feed for over thirty years, putting in the extra hours, always serving his community well, and providing the best life possible for his family.

Beyond his time working, Mr. Billy Joe enjoyed spending his free time fishing, rabbit hunting, and aggravating those closest to him. He found pleasure in all the simple things life had to offer. He believed the true riches of life were being surrounded by family and friends and loving the Lord with all you heart. Mr. Billy Joe knew that it’s the heart of a man that makes a person rich. It’s what a person is, not what he has that makes brings people true happiness. Mr. Billy Joe lived a full life dedicated to providing for his family, doing right by others, and always offering a hand to those he could. His devotion and willingness to provide for those he loved, hard work and dedication to his career, and unwavering friendship to so many will long be remembered by his loving family, community, and wide circle of friends.

In addition to his wife of thirty-nine years, Mrs. Johna, memories will continue to be shared by three sons, Jacob Hopper (Anna), Jordan Hopper (Randa), and John Mark “Johnny” Hopper (Whitney), one sister, Marie Shackleford (Larry), and nine grandchildren, Landon, Adlie, Abby, Preslie, Fynlie, Macey, Jake, John Ridge, and Kolton.

He is also preceded in death by two sisters, Irene Hopper and Shelby Binford.

Those serving as pallbearers will be his three sons, along with Russ Buntin, Cody Hurt, and Tyler Hill.

Honorary pallbearers will be Larry Shackleford, Larry Newby, Chad Newby, Rodney Chapman, Kent Mauney, Terry Chapman, and Ronnie Lindsey.

Ripley Funeral Home invites you to share memories with Mr. Billy Joe’s family.

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.