William Edward Hopkins

William Edward “Bill” Hopkins, 85, of Louisville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at the home of his grandson, Dekle Todd III.

 Bill was born October 30, 1940, on a small farm outside Hart, Michigan, to William Hopkins and Gladys Pender Hopkins Graham. He was the younger of two sons. After graduating high school, he joined the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Gordon. Following his service, he chose to make his life in Georgia after marrying. 

Bill worked for Forestry Services as a fire lookout and spotter near Sparta before beginning a long career with J.P. Stevens—later Forstmann Woolen Mills—outside Louisville. He served as a machine operator and later a mechanic, remaining with Forstmann until his retirement. A mechanic at heart, Bill was happiest under the hood of an old car or tinkering with a lawn mower for as long as his health allowed.

He cared devotedly for his disabled daughter, Pat, until her passing, and later helped care for her daughter, Danielle, for several years.

 In his later years, Bill attended The Community Church of Christ in Blythe, where he formed friendships and was known for his spirited conversations with fellow members. 

Bill is survived by his children: Donna Landrum (Louis) of Charleston, SC; Sherry Dukes (Tony) of Wrens; Richard Hopkins of Louisville; and W. Michael Hopkins (Jessy) of Hepzibah. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Dustin Livingston (Jess) of Waynesboro; Charles Jones of Graniteville, SC; Dekle Todd III of Louisville; Danielle Blanchard of Charleston, SC; and Kyrsten Hopkins and Mady Hopkins of Hepzibah; along with numerous great‑grandchildren and great‑great‑grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Gladys Pender Graham of Hart, Michigan; his father, William Hopkins of Muskegon, Michigan; his brother, David Peter Hopkins, Sr. of Walkerville, Michigan; and his youngest daughter, Patricia Blanchard (David) of Louisville. 

The family will hold a private memorial service in the near future. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Bill’s honor to The Community Church of Christ, 3921 Bath Edie Rd, Blythe, GA 30805.