Gary N. Hooper

NORWALK - Gary N. Hooper, 79, of Norwalk and formerly of Monroeville, passed away peacefully Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020. He was born Aug. 27, 1940, in Seco, Ky., and attended Millersburg Military Institute. Gary was a 1958 graduate of Jenkins High School, Jenkins, Ky. He received his bachelor's degree from Morehead State University, Morehead, Ky. Gary was employed for 33 years at Monroeville High School, where he taught, retiring in 1998. Prior to this, he taught at Middletown, Ohio, and Olive Hill, Ky. Gary also was the organist at the former Zion Episcopal Church and Trinity Lutheran Church, of Monroeville. He was much loved and respected by all while teaching, and blessed after retirement by shouts of "Hey, Mr. Hooper, you were my favorite teacher." Gary was proud of all his students and enjoyed working with the drama students. He was especially proud of his film media class that entered a competition with their movie and defeated schools such as The Ohio State University and Indiana University. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Beverly L. (Bowling) Hooper; two daughters, Lisa Jan (Rob Lamm) Zinn of Monroeville and Lacey Ann (Laurence) Rigg of Norwalk; four grandchildren, Hailey Richard, Devrin Richard, Michaela Zinn, and Lilly Rigg; a niece, and other relatives. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Charles C. and Lola (Hall) Hooper; one brother, Charles E. Hooper; and a nephew. Friends may call from 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 2, until funeral services at 4 p.m., at Pfeil Funeral Home, Monroeville Chapel, 109 Monroe St., Monroeville. The Rev. Dr. Tara Henderson and the Rev. Jerry Neuberger will officiate. Condolences may be shared with the family at pfeilfuneralhome.com.