Gregory Scott “Skeeter” Hopper of the Persimmon Community was given a new body on Jan. 3, 2022, after over thirty years of battling Parkinson’s disease. He would have been 59 years old on April 29 and lived his entire life in Rabun County. Skeeter, as he was known by most, was loved and he gave love to everyone. Being the fourth in line of J.S. and Opaline Forrester Hopper’s children, he had to endure a lot by older brothers and a sister, but he held his own. Then Shane came along and brought a new element to Skeeter’s life.
He loved to go. He and his brothers would have Sunday afternoon drives and they would decide if the drive would only have left turns or right turns. It was always an adventure. He loved being a black belt in karate, a good pool game at Kinney’s Pool Hall, and winning a few dollars on scratch offs was a highlight in his later years with little mobility. He loved his family and they loved him. Over the last few years many that knew him at Burlington Industries, Winn Dixie and other places have commented on his fun personality and kindness.
He leaves a special momma, Opaline Hopper, who has cared for him and loved him like no other. His one sister, Rita Davidson (Eddie); three brothers, Rodney Hopper (Gail), Denver Hopper, and Shane Hopper (Tonya) all know what trials Skeeter dealt with, and overcame, like no one thought possible. They will miss him terribly. His two beautiful nieces, Kelli Davidson Shaw (Eric) and Emma Hopper; nephews, Wesly Davidson (Kayla) and Luke Hopper (Annette) along with great-nieces, Paisley Davidson, McKenzy Cash and great-nephew Ashton Hopper will miss their uncle in the days to come but know he is in a much better place.
On Saturday, Jan. 8, 2022, the family held a celebration of Skeeter’s life at Beck Funeral Home in Clayton. There was time for visitation from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. with a service held at 2:00 p.m. by family friend, Rev. Greg Welborn. He was then returned to his home ground of Persimmon, Georgia for burial. Due to health issues, the families have been at their respective homes, but gathered as a family on Saturday for a meal, prior to the service.
Skeeter loved children, and the family would like any donations in his memory to go to Place of Hope (P.O. Box 933, Clayton, GA 30525), whose mission is to help foster families. Beck Funeral Home, in Clayton, Georgia, is in charge of the arrangements. If there are any questions, please call 706-782-9599. An online Memorial Register Book is available at www.beckfuneralhome.com.