Anthony R. Hopper, Jr.

Anthony R. Hopper, Jr., age 84, of Philadelphia, PA, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026, after a brief illness.

Born in Louisville, KY on August 21, 1941, he was the son of the late Anthony R. Hopper, Sr. and Ophie Jane (Walden) Hopper. Known as “Butch” to his family in Kentucky, Tony made his home in the Roxborough section of Philadelphia beginning in 1975.

Tony was, above all, a good and kind man who saw the best in others and never had a bad word to say. He was quick-witted, loved to laugh, and was always ready to break into song. He carried that same warmth into his family, where he was a steady, loving presence and a true role model. To his son Jim, he was a hero whose quiet goodness set the standard for the kind of man he strives to be. As a grandfather, Tony made time for phone calls, dinners, and countless small but meaningful (and silly) gestures, like sending birthday cards at random days throughout the year. He cheered on his granddaughters, Brynn and Kelsey, at their games and performances whenever he could, and his humor, songs, and presence created memories they will carry with them always.

Tony served his country in the United States Army as an active duty personnel specialist from 1964 to 1966, and later in the reserves from 1966 to 1970. He built a strong work ethic throughout his life, working as a typesetter for the Associated Press, later as a driver for Thomas’, and ultimately retiring as a valet. Outside of work, he was involved in the community, coaching and supporting 21st Ward baseball and taking pride in the young people he mentored. Tony loved playing poker, betting on horse racing, and cheering on his favorite teams, including the Phillies, Eagles, and University of Kentucky basketball.

He is survived by his son, James A. Hopper of Plymouth Meeting; his two sisters, Kathryn Hopper of Louisville, KY and Carolyn (William) Norrington of Clarksville, IN; his beloved granddaughters, Brynn and Kelsey, along with their mother, Leslie; as well as his nephew, Donald (Krishna) Hack, and niece, Dawn (Joseph) Jackson.

Tony was preceded in death by his daughters, Jeanine and Kimberly Hopper, and his former wife, Joan Hopper.

Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Monday, April 13, 2026 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by his Funeral Service at 11:00 AM at the McIlvaine Mundy Funeral Home & Crematory, 7384 Ridge Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19128.

Interment will take place in Louisville Memorial Gardens West, Louisville, KY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.