Shirley Hopper

Shirley Marie Hopper 94, died Monday, January 6th, 2025. She was born January 18th, 1930 to Stella and Charles Hahn, the fourth of five siblings, Eileen, Charles, Gene, and Denise.

She taught first grade many years for Derby Public Schools after having resumed her education when her youngest started school. She earned a Bachelor's of Science degree in Education from Wichita State University. In her professional life her most important aim was that the child feel cared for. She loved music and was season ticket holder with Music Theatre Wichita for over 30 years. She sang with St. Mary's church choir and was an active guild member. She avidly pursued aerobic exercise most of her later adult life. She was loved by friends and family for her optimism and exceptional kindness and compassion.

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, except Gene, and her husband Richard Hopper.

Shirley is survived by her son, Richard (Victoria) Hopper, Kathy (Brad) Carey, Brenda (Pat) Squires, grandchildren Jessica Vail, Keli (J.D.) Shaffer, Kaitlyn (Trent) Arion, Laura (Zac) Shinkle, Julie (Parker) Mitchell, and seven great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Derby, Monday, January 13 with the rosary at 9:30 and the funeral mass at 11:00. Interment immediately following at El Paso Cemetery.

[In lieu of flowers] memorial contributions may be made to In lieu of flowers, send donations to Catholic Charities..

www.smithfamilymortuaris.comRick Brenneman