Anthony Edwin Vancepreghy, of Shady Point, Oklahoma, passed away on July 22, 2026, in Spiro, Oklahoma, at the age of 9 years old. Anthony was born on January 12, 2017, in Poteau, Oklahoma.
Anthony was truly bigger than life. He loved fiercely and hugged even more fiercely. His hugs were the kind you could feel—the kind where he wrapped himself around you and made sure you knew you were loved. Those fortunate enough to receive one of Anthony’s hugs will never forget it.
Anthony’s life cannot be measured by the number of years he was here. Instead, it is measured by the countless people he loved so fiercely, the hugs he gave so freely, the lives he touched, the laughter he created, the helping hands he offered, and the memories that will continue to be shared because he was here.
Anthony was a third-grade student at Shady Point School. He loved minecraft, sonic the hedgehog, music, church, and his Sunday school teacher, Ashley McConnell, he also loved simple favorites that brought him joy—macaroni and cheese, chicken nuggets with ranch for dipping, and popcorn sprinkled with nacho seasoning.
He leaves behind a family who loved him beyond measure: his mother, Abigail Schmitz of Poteau, Oklahoma; his grandmother, Libby Schmitz of Poteau, Oklahoma; his grandfather, Steve Schmitz and his wife Linda of Edgewood, Kentucky; his other grandmother, Cathy Sawyers of Edgewood, Kentucky; his God-given parents, Johnny and Brenda Hopkins of the home; his brother, Colton Hopkins and his sister, Brendee-Jo Hopkins of the home; his father, Jonathan Vancepreghy and grandparents Tanya and Elmer Vanceperghy; as well as many friends from church and Shady Point School.
Though his time on earth was far too short, Anthony filled every moment with love, kindness, laughter, and a joy that touched everyone around him. His bright smile, generous heart, unforgettable hugs, and the love he shared so freely will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His memory will continue to inspire those whose lives were forever changed by the blessing of knowing him.
Anthony was preceded in death by his great grandparents, Dick and Louise Searles, Fred Schmitz, and Merle Keeton.
The Celebration of Life Services Anthony Vancepreghy will be at 11am, Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Covenant Church in Poteau, Oklahoma 74953 with Bro. Keith Williams and Bro. Steve Hughes officiating. Burial will follow in the Oakland Cemetery, Poteau, Oklahoma. Visitation with family will be 4-6 pm, Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at The Cedars on Dewey 520 Dewey Ave Poteau, Oklahoma.
Online condolences can be made at www.holtfuneralandcremation.com
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The Family of Anthony has entrusted his arrangements to Holt Funeral and Cremation, 522 Dewey Ave Poteau, OK 74953, (918) 721-0026. Poteau’s Only 100% Locally Owned and Family Operated Funeral Home – Our Family,
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