Paul Arnold Loper

Paul Loper was born March 20, 1945, in Wilmington, Delaware, the son of the late William and Elsie Loper. He was the last born of the (Magnificent 7) Loper siblings.  Reverend Bessie Jones, Reverend Delores Loper, William Loper, Jackie Caulk (deceased), Ronald Loper (deceased), Marjorie Stansbury (deceased).

Paul was the most loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife Faith, and his children, Mechelle (Michael) Connors, Asha Forrest, and Paula (Nell) Jean, his stepchildren Lauren (Pierre) Wooten, Rachel Kelly Corley (deceased) Joshua Corley, Joelle (Brent) Hook and Mickey Corley.  His grandchildren, Atira Forrest, Malcolm Connors, Anias Forrest, Kori Sampson, Kyri Jean, Imani Jean.  His step grandchildren, Bella Wooton, Geno Wooten, Milani Wooten, Jayden Hook. Paul also leaves a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

While a student at Howard High School he was selected to represent his school in a leadership program called Boys High which was held at Delaware’s State Capital building.  Paul also showed his leadership skills on the football field. He was a three-year offensive tackle for Howard’s football team and team captain.  Paul participated in Howard High’s Choir and he was selected to join the All-State High School Choir. While still a student of Howard High School he and his friends established a singing group and participated in local talent shows.  Paul graduated from Howard High School in 1964 with academic excellence.

Paul attended Delaware State College in 1964 with the help of the Principals, and Superintendent of Wilmington School District, and the sacrifices of his grandmother, sisters, and brothers. While in attendance at Delaware State College, Paul pledged Omega Psi Phi.  He was a member of the tutorial staff, drama guild, debate council, and the Student Christian Association.  Paul was honored to be named a Harvard Divinity School Fellow which allowed him to pursue summer classes at Harvard University in Boston, Massachusetts.

Upon graduation from Delaware State College, Paul started his teaching career at Charles B. Lore Elementary School within the Wilmington School District. He became an Assistant Principal and was selected to study the latest trends in education in England, his wife and daughter accompanied him.  Paul later became the Administrative Assistant to the Deputy Superintendent for Instruction and Program Director of the Teacher Corps Project within the New Castle County School District.   Paul Loper later worked as Supervisor of Alternative Programs and Director of Instruction within the Red Clay School District.  Mr. Loper finished his tenure in the Red Clay School District as the Principal of Richardson Park Elementary School from 1987-2001.  Once retired from the Red Clay School District, Mr. Loper joined forces with Edison Company and became the Principal of Wetheral Elementary.  Paul finished his career in education as an Educational Consultant to Edison’s Office of Operations and Kingswood Academy Office of Curriculum.

Paul was also a lifelong member and supporter of Saint Paul U.A.M.E. church.  In his youth, he was the president of the Junior usher board and sang with the Youth Choir and the DJ Specials. He supported the Ministry of Hope and awarded Saint Paul’s youth members a scholarship to attend a summer enrichment math camp.

Paul Loper embodied the spirit of the Most High especially when it came to family. He was a provider, listener, cheerleader, and advocate. He always put his family before himself.  It seemed like he had the answer to every problem, be it with duct tape, prayer, food, a questionable joke, or money. When you left his presence you had the answer or at least felt like you did.  He was indeed our Superman. The family was essential to Paul. In an effort to keep the family together, he initiated an annual Christmas Eve celebration at his house for his siblings, nieces, nephews, and friends.  This tradition continued despite the pandemic and his ailment.

Paul was a great man whose impact will be forever felt by his family, who loves him dearly. He was a selfless man whose passing left an unfillable gap in the hearts of his loved ones. His ability to sacrifice, provide, support, forgive, and love will be forever ingrained in all he knew.

A memorial service will take place at 9 A.M. on August 5, 2023, at St. Paul U.A.M.E. Church, 3114 Market Street, Wilmington, DE 19802.

Donations can be made to his Go Fund Me account.  Paul was a product of Stubbs Elementary School. He credits his initial academic success to the principal and teachers who encouraged him to excel. In lieu of flowers and gifts please donate to this educational initiative in order to impact the lives of students for a brighter tomorrow.

Go Fund Me:  ​​https://gofund.me/a3bf5b15