Mrs. Opal Lee Hibbard, 80, of Himyar, passed away Thursday morning, January 11, 2024 at her home. She was the daughter of the late Boyd and Mary Bingham Cooper born May 13, 1943 in Barbourville.
Opal was a devoted member of the Salt Gum Baptist Church and a retired cook from Flat Lick Elementary School. She loved her family and especially adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She enjoyed cooking and made sure no one left her house hungry. Her favorite TV program was The Hour of Harvest. Most of all, she was a devoted Christian. She truly loved the lord, attending church, and listening to God’s word.
On May 23, 1987 she united in marriage with Russell Hibbard in Barbourville.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Russell; sister, Ida Mae Baker and brother, Boyd Cooper Jr.
Survivors include her devoted children, Jerry Messer and wife, Pat, of Walker and Veronica Slusher of Flat Lick; sisters, Anna Lois Baker and Sarah Jane Messer both of Barbourville; brother, Robert Cooper and wife, Susan, of Bimble; cherished grandchildren, Natasha Taylor and husband, Bill, of Middlesboro and Matthew Messer and partner, Reanna, of Walker; great-grandchildren, Cameron, Lacey, Gracie, Atreus “Trey”, Colson, Kaiden and Maddie Lee; among other loved ones and dear friends.
Her funeral service will be conducted at the Salt Gum Baptist Church Sunday, January 14 at 1 P.M. with Rev. Kennon Roark and Rev. Vernon Morris officiating. She will be laid to rest in the Macroe Branch Cemetery.
Casket bearers will be her nephews and family.
Friends may visit at the funeral home Saturday from 5 until 8 P.M. and on Sunday at the church from 11 A.M. until the funeral hour.
Expressions of sympathy may go the charity of your choice in Opal’s memory.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
