Carol J. Hopper

In Loving Memory of Carol J. Hopper

Carol J. Hopper, 89, of Massillon, Ohio, passed away on October 19, 2026. She was born on December 20, 1936, and lived a life filled with love, friendship, and a genuine acceptance of others.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Russell J. and Edna E. Hopper, and her brother, Russell J. “Sonny” Hopper Jr.,sister-in-law, Helen J. Hopper and special big sister Helen (Don) Englehardt.

Carol leaves behind her beloved nieces and nephews, who were like her own children: Russell J. Hopper III (Lisa), Carol Ann Cooper (Steve), Penny Master, Ted Bubenchik, and Steve Bubenchik (Marsha). She also leaves behind her great-nieces and nephews: Kyle Cooper (Theresa), Samantha Hopper (Morgan), Nikki Bevens (Dakota), Kim Norton (Rick), Kandi Shane (Scott), Jimmy, Steve, Teddy, and Derek Bubenchik. Along with them, she leaves behind many other great- and great-great-nieces and nephews, as well as countless dear friends who held a special place in her heart.

Carol was a well-known and avid bowler throughout Stark County. She made history as the first woman in Massillon to roll a perfect 300 game, a remarkable accomplishment that reflected her talent and dedication to the sport. She also served on the Massillon Women’s Bowling Association for many years, leaving her mark on the local bowling community.

In addition to her love of bowling, Carol spent more than 50 years in the harness horse business alongside her father, her brother Sonny, and her nephew Rusty. It was a lifelong passion that became an important part of her life and family history.

Above all, Carol will be remembered for her generous heart and accepting nature. She welcomed everyone, never turned anyone away, and made people feel that they belonged. To Carol, friendship went far beyond a name or a title. Friends were family, and family was everything. Her kindness, warmth, and love for others touched countless lives, and her memory will live on through all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Carol leaves behind a legacy of love, acceptance, and cherished memories that will never be forgotten. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her.

Funeral Services
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., followed by burial at Brookfield Cemetery at noon.

Though Carol may be gone from our sight, the love she shared, the friendships she treasured, and the lives she touched will remain forever in our hearts.

A special Thank You to Crossroads’s Hospice and Hanover Healthcare for all the love and great care you gave AC.