Mary Hopper

Mary Billingsley Hopper of Uvalde, Texas passed away on August 30, 2023.  Mary was born in Vernon, Alabama on December 10th, 1929.  She has been a resident of Uvalde TX since 1952.  She is preceded in death by her husband V.D. Hopper, brothers Edward and Franklin and sister Eva Nell.  She is survived by daughter Brenda Lee of San Antonio, Michael Hopper and his wife Rose of Karnes City, Terry Hopper and his wife Bonnie of Canyon Lake, and James Hopper of Corpus Christi, grandchildren Stephanie Lee Velasquez and her husband Dr. Roger Velasquez (children Sloane, Gavin, and Holden), Travis Hopper and his wife Audrey (children Vivienne and Evangeline), Amy and her husband LTC Sean Riley (children Paxton and Maddox), Ryane Gibbens and her husband Brad (children Lucy, Penny, Walker, Mary, and baby girl due in October).  Mary will be remembered for her love of life, adventurous spirit, and beautiful blue eyes that had just a twinkle of mischief.  

Mary spent her youth in Vernon, Alabama until she met the love of her life, V. D.  After they snuck across the Mississippi State Line to be wed, they relocated to Uvalde, Texas in search of greater opportunity.  They welcomed 4 children, briefly relocated to Falls City, then back to Uvalde. Mary enjoyed spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren at the Nueces River.  Mary was an avid seamstress, gardener, bird watcher, and traveler.  She enjoyed the sights and sounds of London, Cape Cod, Washington State, Yellowstone National Park, Hawaii, The Grand Canyon, and beyond.  More than anything, Mary loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; spending time with them was her greatest joy in life.  Mary leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and the best apple pie and fried chicken.

We will celebrate Mary’s life on Saturday, September 9th at 10:00 AM at Rushing-Estes Knowles Funeral Chapel followed by interment at Hillcrest Cemetery.  Pastor Bobby Contreras will be officiating.  Reception to follow.  Thank you to pallbearers Sean Riley, Travis Hopper, Dr. Roger Velasquez, Brad Gibbens, Paxton Riley, and Matt Marquez. Honorary pallbearer is Phillip Lee.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Heart Association or Samaritan’s Purse.