Clyde Gibson Hopper

Gibson Hopper was a giant of a man, a much-loved husband, father, Poppy, and friend. His life was marked by service, humble leadership, and unashamed worship of God. He was born on May 6, 1955, to Clyde Graham Hopper, Jr. and Mary Ellen Davis and was an amazing big brother to his siblings: Nathan, Melanie, and Clark. He grew up in Monroe, NC, and was active at First Baptist Monroe, where he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.

His early life was marked by the twin flames of adventure and learning, receiving not only his BA in English but also his BS in Mechanical Engineering from The University of South Carolina. His zeal for engineering, music, sound, nature, history, and people was sparked and never waned throughout his life.

He married his wife, Debbie in Charlotte, NC in 1994, adding not only vibrant and deep love to his life, but also two daughters - Katie and Jess. Gibson and Debbie added their beloved daughter Caroline Grace to the family in 1995 and he stepped passionately and joyfully into the role of fatherhood. He attended and served both St. Andrews Methodist and Forest Hill Church while living in Charlotte. 

During his esteemed career, he worked as an engineer for multiple corporations and later for the SPAWAR/NIWC division of the U.S. Navy. His transition to the Navy brought him and his family to Charleston, SC, in 2002. Gibson brought excellence, calling, purpose, and the light of Jesus to every place he worked.

He served at every church he attended throughout his life with Christ, most notably Seacoast Church in Mt. Pleasant from 2002-2018 and Bright City Church in Charleston from 2018-2024. He was a discipler of men, an encourager of women, and a passionate worshipper of Jesus.

He served on the Town of Mt. Pleasant Historical Commission from 2021-2024, was a member of the Carolinas Audiophile Society, as well as a sitting board member for two non-profits: Seen Moms and Francis and Benedict.

The gaping hole he left in the hearts of those who loved him is filled by the hope of heaven and a deep desire to honor his legacy. He is survived by the wife he adored - Debbie Powell Hopper; the children who called him their hero - Katie Walters, Jess Connolly, Caroline Hopper; along with his two sons-in-law - Josh Walters and Nick Connolly; his grandchildren, AnnaJaye Walters, Abigail Walters, Elias Connolly, Abel Walters, Gloriana Connolly, Benjamin Connolly, Asher Walters, Ari Walters, Cannon Connolly, Anthem Walters, and Adele Walters; as well as his siblings Nathan (Denise) Hopper (Monroe, NC), Melanie Hopper (Landrum, SC), Clark Hopper (Winston-Salem, NC), and loved by many cousins and extended family. He is preceded in death by parents: Clyde Graham Hopper, Jr. and Mary Ellen Davis.

In lieu of flowers or food, his family asks that you donate to Bright City Church to establish a men’s ministry in Gibson’s honor.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation – Mount Pleasant, 1520 Rifle Range Road, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464, 843-884-3833.