Cookville, TN - Paul B. Hooper, of Cookeville, Tennessee, was born on January 11, 1964, and passed away on January 23, 2026, at the age of 61.

Paul's life was firmly rooted in his love for family and friends. He built a life rich with memories—playing sports, boating on the lake, traveling throughout the United States and abroad with his family, attending his grandchildren's sporting events year-round, and passionately cheering on UT football. Paul deeply cherished the camaraderie of his lifelong friends and his special work family with the Tennessee Lottery.

He was a devoted husband of 23 years and took immense pride in his children by marriage and beloved grandchildren. Paul was a successful business owner and enjoyed a distinguished 25-year career with the Tennessee Lottery. Known for his zest for life, Paul loved sharing stories of his experiences and adventures, always accompanied by laughter. With a personality larger than life, Paul never met a stranger and genuinely loved connecting with people. His wife, Gina, perhaps said it best: "Paul was a special person with a unique personality who was loved dearly. He had a heart of gold and showed it every day." Paul will be missed beyond measure by all who knew and loved him.

Paul is survived by his wife, Regina "Gina" Shanks Hooper of Cookeville, Tennessee; his mother, Vera Spann Hooper of Cookeville, Tennessee; his children by marriage, Chris Weber and Trina (Johnnie) Allison, both of Cookeville, Tennessee; and his grandchildren, Tristan, Stacy, Rookie, and Cruz Allison, all of Cookeville, Tennessee. He is also survived by a large extended family of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Gene Hooper of Cookeville, Tennessee, and his brother, John Hooper of Grapevine, Texas.

Spann Funeral Home of Dickson, Tennessee, is handling Paul's cremation, with ashes to be cast during a future ceremony. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 7, at 3:00 p.m. at Nick's Restaurant in Cookeville, Tennessee.

Flowers or remembrances may be sent to Gina Hooper at 1129 Flatt Circle, Cookeville, TN 38501.