Wayne Hopper, brother of Claude Hopper (founder and manager of the Hoppers), is an interesting and talented individual in his own right. He is a successful businessman, noted author, and inspirational and motivational speaker. Most importantly, Wayne is the one in the Hopper family who is considered the storyteller and jokester; his comedic talent has been described as a peculiar cross between Jerry Clower and Rodney Dangerfield.

It’s common to hear Wayne publicly spinning his hilarious tales about memories of Rockingham County, North Carolina, roots, where he grew up on a meager tobacco farm with his ten siblings. “We were so poor, the poor people talked about us!” Wayne once laughingly explained.

Wayne’s comedic timing is superb, and his gift for sharing meaningful observations on life can inspire and encourage listeners.

Concerning the family’s legendary music talent, Wayne has teasingly said that his brothers never allowed him to sing with them when they first started the Hopper Brothers in 1956. To this day he claims they wouldn’t even tell him where they were practicing.

As a writer, Wayne earned a considerable amount of national recognition for his book, How To Keep a Crowd Listening and Laughing. It’s chock full of humorous tales, anecdotes and observations from his unusually colorful life.

Wayne has a unique talent of being able to make people laugh. “He can begin to tell a story and by the time he’s done, everyone in the room is nearly rolling on the floor in laughter,” Claude Hopper said about his brother.

Wayne also has a wonderful testimony, in that he was miraculously healed of colon cancer in 1989. As he describes his experiences on stage, people are always amazed to hear how the Lord has touched his life. It is apparent He had further plans for Wayne, and after being healed, Wayne never ignored his calling.

If you ever have the chance to hear Wayne Hopper speak, don’t hesitate! You will have a great time—and the experience will touch your heart.

Wayne and his wife currently live in Virginia.