Jim was born to Evelyn and the late Walter Hopkins on May 21,
1959 in North Hampton, MA. Jim grew up in Stoneridge, NY,
with his two sisters, Beth and Becky.
Jim graduated from Cornell University in 1980 with his B.S. in
Mechanical Engineering. After college, he moved to California
to work for Northrop Corporation in El Segundo. He would later
work at Research Optical in New Hampshire, Pacific Optical in
California, Zygo Corporation in Connecticut, and Coherent
Aerospace & Defense in California.
Jim was a strong Christian and was devoted to sharing God’s
love with others. In his younger years he attended Grace
Community Church in New York. Throughout his life, he
attended and served at many churches. He participated in
countless events, bible studies, and ministries. Through the
years, he was a pastor, worship leader, and small group leader.
But he was most passionate about youth ministry; he felt it to be
so important and often overlooked. His love for people was
evident through his commitment to support and fondly
acknowledge everyone. He consistently went above and beyond,
all in the name of Jesus.
He met his wife, Rose Bender Hopkins during a wedding of
mutual friends. He was the only single man, so he took turns
dancing with her and her three friends. Jim and Rose spent the
rest of the evening talking. After several later encounters Jim
and Rose became inseparable. They celebrated 39 years of
marriage on April 20, 2025. Together, they helped plant
churches in California, Connecticut, and New Hampshire. Jim
faithfully cared for his wife while she struggled with many
health issues. His love and commitment to Rose was shown
most when she became paralyzed/paraparetic. While in several
medical facilities, Jim stayed by Rose’s side. When Rose
returned home, Jim pulled a chair next to her hospital bed to
make sure she was never alone.
Jim and Rose had two children, Taylor and Danielle. Jim was an
incredible father. He lovingly provided for them his whole life.
He played many roles for his children; everything from a soccer
coach to a patron of performing and visual arts. Jim attended
every performance throughout their school years, as well as their
college careers. Above all, the best thing he did for his children
was share his love for God and his faith in Him.
Jim and his family loved traveling. One of his best memories
was sitting at a juice stand in Aruba with Rose and watching the
ocean.
Jim’s favorite place to vacation was York Beach, ME. The
tradition started many years earlier with his father as a young
boy. Jim grew up visiting York Beach, and then went on to bring
his own children, as well as countless friends and family
members. He loved candlepin bowling, rock climbing at Nubble
Lighthouse, Goldenrod’s salt water taffy, and building sand
castles and protecting them until the tide wiped them out. He
even maintained a Hopkins tradition of taking a “morning dip”
in the cold Atlantic Ocean.
Jim was a lover of sports, especially University of Michigan and
Miami Dolphins football. He would often wake up early to
watch International soccer matches. He himself was a top soccer
player in high school.
He was exceptionally musically gifted. He played the trumpet
and guitar, and he also had a beautiful singing voice.
Penguins were Jim’s favorite animal. He was ecstatic when he
had the chance to pet a penguin and see several others up close
at SeaWorld.
Jim loved watching and quoting movies. He especially loved
watching movies in the theater so he could eat his favorite:
Popcorn!
Along with popcorn, Jim adored many different sweets. He
always had a hidden stash of Mike & Ikes, Hot Tamales, 100
Grand bars, and jelly beans.
Jim will never be forgotten. Every person who knew him was
touched by his kindness, wisdom, enthusiasm, and genuine love.
His legacy will continue through Rose, his children, and the
many people Jim shared his faith and salvation with.
No more pain, no more suffering, no more tears. Jim met God,
his creator. When he was in the presence of God, He said to him,
“Well done, good and faithful servant”.
A Celebration of Life is planned for late September. More
details to follow.
