Jack “Willy” L. Hoopes, Jr., 65, of Monmouth, IL, passed away on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at his home.
He was born on June 9, 1960 in Galesburg, IL, the son of Jack L. and Sarah E. (Wade) Hoopes. Willy was raised and educated in Monmouth and attended Monmouth High School.
Willy worked for many years at Mariah Foods in Monmouth before continuing his work at the Monmouth Pottery. In later years, he transitioned into construction, working alongside his brother-in-law, Roger Swank, at Swank Construction. Beyond his professional life, Willy was deeply involved in his community, he found great fulfillment serving as a counselor for the Monmouth Park Program and took pride in helping coach various youth sports at the YMCA. Willy was an avid college baseball and basketball fan. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Surviving Willy are his daughters, Ashley Griffin of Monmouth, IL, Lanette Hoopes of Galesburg, IL; his grandchildren, Mhylkah Griffin, Noreana Griffin, Winter Cooper, Carmelo Berry, Emiear Berry; his sisters, Angie Hoopes of Monmouth, IL, Jacqueline Hoopes of Monmouth, IL, Janet (David) Lewark of Glendale, AZ, Rebecca Swank Wilson of Monmouth, IL; his brothers, Paul (Terri) Wilson of Summerville, SC, Rodney (Jodi) Hoopes of Kirkwood, IL, Eddie Willett of Monmouth, IL; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack L. Hoopes, Sr., Sarah E. Mortimer; step father, Raymond Mortimer; one sister, Sheila Cathell, and one grandson, Darion Smith.
A Celebration of Life will be at 6:00 p.m., Friday, August 15, 2025 at Calvary Baptist Church (1000 South 1st St., Monmouth, IL). Visitation will be prior to the service from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the church. Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials can be made to the Jack Hoopes Memorial Fund and can be sent to the funeral home. McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of the arrangements. For more information or to leave an online condolence visit, www.mcguireanddaviesfuneralhome.com.
