Rickey Joe Hopper

Rickey Joe Hopper, age 66, of Cleveland, MS, passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at St. Francis Hospital in Memphis, TN.

Born on February 1, 1960, in Cleveland, MS, Rickey was the son of William "Bill" Hughey Hopper and Bettye Jo Tubbs Hopper. He attended Cleveland Schools and later enlisted in the Mississippi Army National Guard, serving for six years. Following his service, Rickey spent some time in Texas, where he worked in the restaurant industry before returning to Mississippi. He built a successful career in printing, having worked at Rhodes Printing, Baxter Laboratories, and a print shop in Clarksdale, MS. Additionally, he contributed to the sales force at Delta Hardware Company and served as a sales representative for Boyle Lumber for 15 years.

An avid musician, Rickey had a passion for traveling and enjoyed singing with his father and friends. He cherished moments spent with his children, particularly as he coached them in their chosen sports. His interests included disc golf, board games, playing dominoes, and occasional hunting trips. Rickey was known for his strong work ethic, love for his family, and his steadfast character. He grew up attending the Church of God of Prophecy, which played a significant role in shaping his spiritual foundation. His presence will be deeply missed by his family, friends and colleagues.

Rickey was preceded in death by his beloved parents and his grandson, Upton Hunter Burchfield. He leaves behind his cherished children: Jerry D. Burchfield of Oklahoma, Ricky L. Hopper (Mariah) of Texas, and Dustin Hopper (Cheryl) of Texas, along with his siblings, William Carl Hopper of Cleveland, MS, and Johna Faye Hopper of Cleveland, MS. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Keigan Hopper, Dustin Tyler Hopper II, Jacey Burchfield, Grayce Hopper, Jerrick Burchfield, Zoey Hopper, Alivia Hopper and his Nieces and Nephews. 

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM at Cleveland Funeral Home. The Celebration of Life Funeral Service will take place on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at 2:00 PM in the Cleveland Funeral Home Chapel, officiated by Brother Larry Weaver and Brother Joel Hammons. Burial will follow at Lehrton Cemetery in Ruleville, MS.

Pallbearers include Ben Slaton, Bobby Rivera, Zak Walker, A.J. Wilson, Bobby Foster Jr., and Kent Wilburn. Honorary pallbearers are Frankie Roncali, Marty Ross, Marshall Hopper and Timmy Slaton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society at American Cancer Society.

Cleveland Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of Rickey's family during this difficult time.