James Hoopes was born in Atlantic City on August 16, 1972 and was raised in Ventnor. He graduated from Holy Spirit High School in 1990 and then Albright College in 1994. At Albright, Jim played basketball, set the school’s rebounding record and was recently honored as a member of the Albright College All Century Team. He later went on to obtain his Master’s Degree from Seton Hall University. Jim toured the United States playing professional basketball with the Washington Generals. He then went on to teach Spanish and coach basketball at Holy Spirit High School while working summers at the Greenhouse in Margate.

In November 1998, Jim graduated from the 118th New Jersey State Police class. He proudly and honorably served as a State Trooper for 14 years.

On Wednesday, September 12, 2012 Trooper Hoopes died due to a heart attack while training on the Atlantic City boardwalk.

Trooper Hoopes served for 14 years with the State Police.

James G. Hoopes is survived by his wife, Merry, and sons, Jayson and Joey. Jim is also survived by his mother Cathy, sister Lisa (Drew) Gibson.