Beachcombing -- Korey

We were saddened to learn of the passing of Korey Hooper, son of my longtime friend, Mari, who has worked tirelessly as a volunteer on behalf of MemorialCare and numerous other local non-profit organizations. Here are the details of his life and passing:

Korey Ashton Hooper, 55, of Pomona, passed away on July 30. Born and raised in Long Beach, he was the beloved son of Mari Hooper and the late Foster Hooper, and the devoted brother of Bradford Hooper.

From his earliest years, Korey was a joyful, affectionate child whose smile could brighten any room. He loved school, enjoyed every opportunity to participate in sports, and cherished time spent with friends and his beloved dogs. Among his happiest memories were the summers spent visiting family in the Boston area and running freely along the beaches of Cape Cod.

At the age of nine, Korey’s life changed forever when he was struck by a car and suffered a catastrophic brain injury. Rushed to Memorial Hospital, his prognosis was heartbreaking, and there seemed little hope for his survival. Through the extraordinary skills, determination, and compassion of an exceptional team of physicians and caregivers, emergency brain surgery saved his life.

Against all odds, Korey survived and became known throughout the hospital as the “Miracle Kid.” After months of recovery, he returned home to the joyful celebration of family, friends and the medical professionals who had witnessed his remarkable journey.

The challenges Korey faced never diminished his gentle spirit. Instead, they revealed a quiet strength, resilience and kindness that became the hallmarks of his life. He found joy in simple acts of service and took great pride in his work at Home Depot, where he was a valued employee and a friend to both customers and coworkers. Whether helping someone locate an item or retrieving shopping carts with a smile, Korey delighted in making life a little easier for others. His quick wit, warm sense of humor and genuine kindness left lasting impressions on all who knew him.

Korey’s Catholic faith remained a constant source of strength throughout his life. His trust in God sustained him through life’s many challenges and brought him peace, hope and comfort.

Family was the center of Korey’s heart. He was a proud and devoted uncle to Jacob, Sophia and Jessica, delighting in playful teasing and occasionally declaring one of them the “favorite” simply to provoke laughter. Those moments reflected the joy he found in family and the love he shared so generously.

In May 2026, Korey was diagnosed with an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Throughout his illness, he faced each day with courage and quiet dignity. During his final days, he was surrounded by the unwavering love of his mother and brother. Together they shared treasured memories, heartfelt conversations, and prayers that strengthened his spirit and brought him comfort. Korey departed this life knowing he was deeply loved and embraced by the faith that had guided him throughout his journey.

Korey was preceded in death by his father, Foster Hooper. He is lovingly remembered by his mother, Mari; his brother and sister-in-law, Bradford and Marjorie Hooper of Cape Cod, Mass.; his nephew and nieces, Jacob Hooper, Sophia and Jessica; his aunt and uncle, Donna and Robert Hooper.

The Hooper family will remain forever grateful to the extraordinary physicians, nurses, therapists and caregivers whose exceptional skill and compassionate care first gave Korey the precious gift of life following his childhood accident. Their dedication will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Korey’s honor may be made to MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach with checks payable to Memorial Medical Center Foundation.

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