Harry Thomas Hopkins, 85, of Ohioville, passed away on September 29, 2024 at Celebration Villa of Chippewa.
He was born on November 24, 1938 in Sewickley, the son of the late Henry and Edith (Greuey) Hopkins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved grandson Benjamin Chaffee, six siblings, Henry Hopkins Jr., Doris Hopkins, Savilla Weber, Jake Hopkins, Carl Hopkins, Rawland“Pop” Hopkins and sisters in law, Virginia Hopkins, and Louise Hopkins, and a brother-in-law Hank Weber. Harry was cherished and loved by his wife of 58 years Opal (Childers) Hopkins, and daughters Edith (Philip) Chaffee, Lisa (Edward) Gouldsbarry. He truly enjoyed being a wonderful “Pappy” to his grandchildren Naomi (Jake) Shepler, Joshua (Kelly) Chaffee, Abigail (David) Peralta, Danelle Gouldsbarry, Jeslyn Gouldsbarry, Hudson Gouldsbarry and his great-grandchildren, Levi Shepler, Luke Shepler, Judah Shepler, Olivia Chaffee, Tyler Chaffee, and Josephine Peralta.
Harry was one of 13 siblings. He was a great brother and he is survived by Tom (Debbie) Hopkins, Denny (Nancy) Hopkins, Eddie Hopkins, Cindy (Ken) Rex, Kathryn Bell and a sister-in-law, Nola Hopkins and numerous nieces and nephews, who will miss “Uncle Harry.”
Harry was a faithful and devoted husband and a proud and loving father to his two daughters. Alongside Opal, they were always there for their girls, attending school events and youth functions, chaperoning dances, and welcoming the girls’ friends into their home. His girls are thankful for the legacy of integrity and hard work their father left behind. Harry was always thankful for his relationship with his son-in-law and enjoyed spending time with them. Family time was one of his favorite things from childhood to his last days.
Harry was a trucker through and through. He worked hard in his career as a self-employed truck driver, fixing his truck and driving tens of thousands of miles. When there was a “hot load,” they knew Harry would get it there on time and in good shape. Everyone knew they could count on him. Even as he served in the U.S. Army as a heavy truck driver, he earned a good conduct medal and a safe driver badge.
Harry was a committed member of Fairview Presbyterian Church in Ohioville where he came to faith in Jesus and served as a steward and usher. He enjoyed his involvement with his church family.
Harry made friends wherever he went, and no one knew that better than his wife and daughters. It seemed that everywhere they went, Dad would see someone he knew. He made friends easily. He liked visiting his neighbors and his friends. He especially enjoyed sharing trucking stories. He had a heart of gold and was always ready to lend a hand.
As for pastimes, Harry loved spending time at the dirt track. He was always up for an evening at the races with friends, family members, or even solo. He loved going to the races. For many years, he and Opal would winter vacation in their camper at Royal Oaks Campground in Dundee, Florida.
“Hop” will be sadly missed as he left an incredible smile and warmth with all he met.
Friends will be received Friday, October 4, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland. A service will be held Saturday, October 5 at 11 a.m. at Fairview Presbyterian Church, 6366 Tuscarawas Road, Industry. A committal with be held immediately after the service at Highland Cemetery, 339 Salem Church Road, Midland. A luncheon will be held afterward at Fairview Presbyterian Church. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Harry’s name to Fairview Presbyterian Church, 6366 Tuscarawas Road, Industry, PA 15052.