06/04/2026
Time to come home dear brother;
Your tour of duty is through;
You’ve given more than anyone;
Could be expected to do;
Just a few steps further;
The smoke will start to clear;
Others here will guide you;
You have no need to fear;
You have not failed your brothers;
You clearly gave it all;
And through your selfless actions;
Others will hear the call;
So take your place of honor now;
Among those who have gone before;
And KNOW that you will be remembered;
Both now and forevermore.
It is with deep sadness that the Elizabeth Volunteer Fire Department has to announce the passing of past assistant chief/auxiliary member Jerry Hopkins.
Jerry Lee "Hoppy" Hopkins, 78, of Elizabeth, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2026, at Eagle Pointe Nursing Home in Parkersburg, West Virginia, with his loving family by his side.
Hoppy was born on April 10, 1948, in Parkersburg, West Virginia, a son of the late David and Gladys (Hall) Hopkins.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, firefighter, and friend, Hoppy lived a life dedicated to serving his family and community. On February 21, 1969, he married the love of his life, Kathy (Bowers) Hopkins, and together they shared 57 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and countless memories.
In addition to his loving wife, Kathy, he is survived by his daughter, Chasity (John) Stephens; his sisters, Carolyn Longwell and Martha Slusher; his grandchildren, JT (Mary) Stephens, Kylie Stephens, and Addie Stephens; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Jensyn and Blair.
In addition to his parents, Hoppy was preceded in death by his brothers, David Hopkins and Kenny Hopkins, and his sister, Patty Bain.
Hoppy was a proud 1968 graduate of Wirt County High School. Throughout his working career, he was employed by Mountain State Steel Foundry and West Virginia Paving before retiring from Laborers' Union Local 1085. He also proudly served his country in the United States Army.
Service to others was a cornerstone of Hoppy's life. He dedicated 35 years of service to the Elizabeth-Wirt Volunteer Fire Department, retiring as Assistant Chief. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Wirt County 911 system, serving as a leader and advocate for emergency services throughout the county. His commitment to public safety and his community left a lasting impact that will continue for generations.
To many, he was known simply as "Hoppy"—a familiar face, a trusted friend, and a dedicated public servant whose legacy will live on throughout Wirt County. Whether answering a call for help, supporting his community, or cheering on his grandchildren from the sidelines, Hoppy touched countless lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Hoppy was a very active and faithful member of Big Island Run Church, where he found strength in his faith and fellowship with others. He dearly loved his church family and cherished the friendships, encouragement, and spiritual guidance they shared throughout the years.
Hoppy enjoyed NASCAR racing, spending time with his custom-built 1953 Chevrolet truck, and attending his grandchildren's sporting events. He was a proud member of the Wirt County Senior Citizens and treasured the friendships he made there. Above all else, he loved spending time with his family and supporting those he cared about.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Big Island Run Church, 193 Meadowview Lane, Elizabeth, West Virginia.
Funeral services will be conducted on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the church, with Rev. John Larrison officiating. Interment will follow at K of P Cemetery with Military Honors accorded by the United States Army.
The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of Eagle Pointe Nursing Home and the doctors, nurses, and staff of WVU Medicine Camden Clark Medical Center for the compassion, kindness, and care shown to Hoppy during his final days.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Big Island Run Church, 193 Meadowview Lane, Elizabeth, WV 26143, or to the Elizabeth-Wirt Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 114, Elizabeth, WV 26143.
Matheny Whited Funeral Home is honored to assist the Hopkins family with arrangements.
