James Hooper was born on February 11, 1939, in Barberton, Ohio, the only boy among seven children to the late James and Monda Hooper. He was a graduate of Fort Lauderdale High School, Class of 1957, where he played football, and later attended the University of Akron.

James served proudly as a United States Marine before beginning a 38-year career with the Firestone Tire & Rubber Company. Through his work in security, he built enduring friendships and shared his faith freely, ministering to countless coworkers throughout his career.

In 1966, he married the love of his life, the late Deloris Ann (Mills) Hooper. Together they raised two children and shared nearly 43 years of marriage before her passing in 2009. Mr. Hooper was a devoted husband, brother, uncle, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who found joy in family, faith, and hard work.

He was a lifelong enthusiast of both sports and music, an avid gardener, and skilled craftsman.  He was a dedicated member of several congregations, including Akron Baptist Temple and Massillon Baptist Temple in Ohio, and later Breezy Hill Baptist Church and Lakeside Baptist Church in South Carolina.

Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Deloris Hooper; his parents, Monda and James Hooper; his sisters and their spouses: Edith (Gerald) Harstine, Doris (Ron) Roebuck, Lucille (Ray) Lance, and Mary Lou (Ernest) White; brother-in-law, Victor Furcsik; and sister-in-law, Mildred Mills.

He is survived by his son, James (Shari) Hooper; daughter, Michelle Hooper; sisters, Joan (John) Ellis and Jean Furcsik; grandchildren, Cassandra (Dylan) Taylor, Kate Hooper, and Max Hooper; great-grandson, Rhett Taylor; brother-in-law, Johnnie Mills; sister-in-law, Brenda (Kim) Anderson; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

A Graveside Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, in the Mausoleum at Pineview Memorial, North Augusta, South Carolina.

The family extends sincere gratitude to friends and family for their prayers and kindness. 

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