Obituaries

Marilyn Rose Hopper, 87, passed away peacefully on September 21, 2026, in Verona, Kentucky. Born in Erlanger on October 12 to Vivian and Russell Skidmore, Marilyn spent her life surrounded by family, friends, and strangers who, through sheer determination and her ability to make everyone feel welcome, would soon become friends. She married Ray Hopper, Jr., in 1956 and started a family, welcoming her two sons, Gary and Don, and her daughter, Stephanie.

Marilyn loved to travel, always keeping a suitcase and swimsuit nearby and ready to go at the drop of a hat. Even more than traveling, Marilyn loved helping others. She spent her life giving her time and energy to those who needed it most, working at the Women’s Crisis Center, volunteering in disaster relief, and providing meditation classes to women.

Later in life, Marilyn met her partner, Hal, in 1997 while building her home. She named that home Sunny Pointe, and it became a place where all were welcome. Friends, family, and sometimes people she had only just met, would come through her doors for the healing she had to offer, the love and wise advice she so freely gave, or simply for a cup of tea and a chat on the porch. Marilyn had a way of making people feel at home, and Sunny Pointe became a reflection of that gift.

Marilyn lived life fully and on her own terms. She was adventurous, compassionate, and deeply generous with her time, her wisdom, and her love. She will be missed dearly and remembered forever by the many people whose lives she touched.

Marilyn is survived by her sons, Gary (Jan) Hopper, Don (Karen) Hopper and her daughter, Stephanie (Drew) Braun; 8 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Sunday, September 27, 2026, from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. at Verona Vineyards, 13815 Walton Verona Road, Verona, KY 41092. A Celebration of Life will begin at 5:00 p.m.

Her family and friends will carry her memory forward in the stories, adventures, kindness, and love she left behind.

Memorial contributions in Marilyn’s honor may be made to Brighton Center, 11 Shelby Street, Florence, KY 41042, or to Habitat for Humanity.

Online condolences may be left for the family at: www.stithfuneralhome.com.