James Ogden Hopkins Jr., age 83 of Berkeley, California and a native of Galveston, Texas, peacefully entered into rest on October 11, 2021.
James was the oldest child born to James and Margaret (Maggie) Hopkins, who preceded him in death. James is survived by his wife Melinda Hopkins, sisters: Jeanette Ingram and Sharon Lyles, daughters: Debra, Yvette, Kelley, Angela, and Danielle, sons: Daryl and John, and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.
James, also known as Jim, Jimmy, Bubbie, Pappa Jim, Pop, and Uncle Jimmy to the people who knew and loved him, moved with his family to Alameda, California where he graduated from Encinal High School. After high school James worked his way up to become a Gas Engineer for PG&E, where he worked for over 50 years. While at PG&E James was involved in numerous programs and activities, including blood drives, company picnics, and golf tournaments, and earned his spot in the Quarter Century Club. James was the patriarch of the family, an inspirational mentor and friend to everyone who knew him. He was known for his fine culinary skills, infectious laugh, great wisdom, direct advice, and a loving and compassionate heart. Once you were brought into the home of James Hopkins, you were family. To know him is to love him.
James was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend that will be truly missed.
Due to COVID restrictions there will be a private memorial service.
Family and friends are invited to the Hopkins home at 2333 McGee Ave, Berkeley, California 94703 on October 23rd to share memories and a luncheon from 1:00-6:00pm.
Everyone (no restrictions) is invited to attend the burial service on Monday, October 25, 2021 at 1:00pm at Sunset View Cemetery and then back to the Hopkins home afterwards for coffee and dessert.