David was born on September 11, 1940, in Poteau, Oklahoma, to Gladys Mae (Hamilton) Hopper and Russell Floyd Hopper. He passed away peacefully at his home in Gans on September 3, 2025. On February 2, 1963, he married the love of his life, Ellen Real, in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, and together they shared 62 wonderful years.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Russ and Gladys Hopper, and his brother, Tom Hopper.
David was a very loving and special gentleman whose life reflected his faith and devotion. He was a member of the Unity Baptist Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Before that, he attended and was a deacon at Lakeview Baptist Church in Spiro, Oklahoma. He was also, a deacon at Bethel Baptist Church in Arkoma, Oklahoma. God, his family, and his church always came first in his heart, and he cherished them beyond measure. Close behind was his love for his extended family and many dear friends.
He grew up in the Flower Hill Community west of Spiro, where he attended grade school. He graduated from Spiro High School in 1958 and later attended Junior College in Poteau. David spent his career at Gerber Foods in Fort Smith, Arkansas, where he worked faithfully for 30 years until his retirement.
David enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, hunting, traveling, and camping. He also had a passion for helping build churches and was proud to lend his hands to the construction of many across the country. A true country boy at heart, he was happiest in the country and never cared for the pace of the big city.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Ellen Hopper; daughter, Jeani Davis and husband Perry; two grandsons, Seth Davis and wife Serenity, and Dustin Davis; one great-granddaughter, Lillian Davis; one granddaughter, Jessica Stanart; along with many nephews, nieces, other relatives, and countless loved ones and friends.
Pallbearers will be Seth Davis, Dustin Davis, Jason Stewart, Ron Hatley, and Warren Gragg.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Derrell Stewart, Bob Duvall, Charlie White, Gary O’Kelly, and Kenny Pettigrew.
As his family lovingly reflects, “When a loved one moves to Heaven, it sure leaves an empty place in our hearts and lives.”
You may leave an online message at www.MalloryMartinFuneralHomeSpiro.com.
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