Tyler Garrett Hopper left home for the final time on February 11, 2026. His birth on May 17, 2001, in Jackson, TN was the start of a life that would be filled with laughter, adventure, and remarkable courage. Tyler spent his years as part of the Jackson community and it was there that he peacefully passed away at home, surrounded by the love of his family after a valiant three-year battle with synovial sarcoma.

A graduate of South Side High School in Jackson, Tyler's tenacious and dedicated spirit led him to a fulfilling career as a millwright for MWP and Pictsweet. He approached his work with the same strength and determination that he carried throughout his life, earning the respect and admiration of his peers and colleagues.

Tyler perfected the art of savoring life for everything that it is worth. His sense of adventure knew no bounds as he traveled across the world. From Venice, Italy to the plains of South Dakota, to the deserts of Arizona, to the Redwood Forests on the coast until he slid all the way back into the sloughs, rivers and lakes of home, experiences called to him. It was a call that he always answered no matter if it was 4 A.M. in a duck blind or 11 P.M. on the Vegas Strip after a concert. Tyler loved to explore and indulge in everything that life had to give.

Those who knew Tyler will remember the unmatched charisma he brought into every room. His humor was intoxicating and uplifting while his antics lead to some well-earned nicknames, such as Make-A-Wish, Little Bubba, and Wingnut. Not only were his antics unrivaled but so was his thoughtfulness and creativity. He never showed up empty handed. Whether his hands were full of homemade tortillas, the latest stained-glass project, or a bread slicer for a new baker, his gifts were always from the heart. The swelling tides of laughter he brought to life will forever be felt in the hearts of those that loved him.

Tyler defined courage for us all by facing life without flinching. That bravery and intelligence guided him through the challenges of cancer with unwavering resolve and stubborn grit. He faced each hurdle with his chin held high and his eyes on tomorrow.

His memory will be a light in the hearts of his mother Sheri Hopper (Ernie Rollins); father, Terry Hopper (Paige); siblings, Dustin Ross Hopper (Alison), Kehlie Hopper, Bill Haley (Desirae Ashley), Kyle Knapp (Katelyn), and Kelly Futrell (Will); nephews, Garrett Thomas Hopper, Luca Knox Knapp, and Thomas Henry Futrell; uncle, Neal Evans (Jodi); cousins, Carson Evans (Paige) and Roman Evans; grandparents, Janet and Bob Evans (aka Grammy and Pop); and personal bakers, Olivia Noell and McCall Emison.

The family will receive friends on Monday, February 16, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. in the chapel of Arrington Funeral Directors.

Pallbearers to serve include: Christopher Emison, Bill Haley, Dustin Ross Hopper, Jason Inman, Cory Kehl, and Cody Stooksberry.

Honorary Pallbearers include: Neal Evans, Eric Kehl, Sr. , Ronnie Kehl, Ron Coleman, Dwayne DePrang, Cameron DePrang, Conner DePrang, Chad Kirk, Kyle Rollins, Porter Rollins, Ralph Suarez, Don Tinkham, Wade Norris, Nick Batson, Steve Overton, and Jim Strait.

What words can be written to describe a life so full? Though Tyler no longer walks beside us, his lingering presence will forever remain in our hearts. Through our shared love, joy and tears, we will celebrate his memory. With each new season, may we always be reminded to be like Tyler Garrett Hopper and never be afraid to go boldly into life's next adventure.