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Obituaries
Hazel Sherman Hopkins
Hazel Sherman Hopkins, age 91, departed this life of natural causes on Friday, February 9, 2024, to be reunited with the love of her life, Otis. Born on December 29, 1932, in Rocky Point, North Carolina, to Howard Ernest Sherman and Lottie Mae Woodcock, she moved to Newport News, Virginia, after finishing high school. She met Otis Ray Hopkins Sr. while working at the local drugstore, and they married on May 28, 1955. Hazel began her career as a telephone operator and later moved into the Telephone Company business office before retirement. Hazel enjoyed baking and was famous for her Pound cake, Pecan pie, and German chocolate cake. She also enjoyed a good book, a Hallmark movie, and listening to music. Her greatest happiness in life was spending time with family and friends and doing things for others.
Hazel is survived by her son Otis Ray Hopkins Jr. and his family, wife Brenda R. Hopkins, Davina, Chantal, and Jayden; her son Stuart Alan Hopkins and his family; wife Peggy Hopkins; granddaughter Hannah Louise Hopkins, Chelsea, Khloe, and Scarlett.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Otis Ray Hopkins Sr., her parents, Howard Ernest Sherman and Lottie Mae Woodcock, and siblings Mildred Sherman, Gladys Sherman, William Howard Sherman, Thurman Earl Sherman, Carl Sherman, and Clifton Lee Sherman.
The family will receive friends from 12:30 PM to 01:30 PM at Peninsula Funeral Home on Friday, February 16, 2024, followed by the Service and Celebration of Life at 01:30 PM, before laying Hazel to rest next to Otis at Peninsula Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations to be made to the Peninsula Food Bank or the American Cancer Society.
4 Comments
Stuart, Peggy, Hannah and Family: We all feel the loss and sadness of losing a parent/ Grandparent. Hazel’s life on this earth may have ended but each of you will always have a part of her in your hearts, thoughts, memories… She was a special person and the stars will twinkle a little brighter now that she is up there! XOXO Shan
Many great memories growing up in the family. Hazel always made you feel loved and was a wonderful host and cook when we had a family gathering . I aways looked forward to spending holidays and family outings with her. Hazel and Otis were a match made in heaven…they are much loved and missed.
We were neighbors in the 80’s…and Hazel (and Otis) were the best neighbors we’ve ever had. Our son was 2-4 1/2 years old when we lived there. He’d go next door and say, “Hazel, I’m so hungry…would you make me some of that pound bread?” Of course she would…and that pound cake was delicious! (It had a secret ingredient—LOVE.) Hazel was good to us, and we’ve stayed in touch over the years. She was considered family…and all of us (Jay, myself, Lori, and Bryan) were heartbroken to hear of her passing.
I am a better person because I knew her…and will really miss her dry humor, and our phone chats.
We send our love to her family…we know she left each of you with wonderful memories. She loved you all so much.
Hazel and Otis lived in the same neighborhood as my grandparents, Walter and Dolly Schmidt, in Deer Park. I spent a lot of my childhood in that neighborhood and knew many of the residents. I went to school with Ray. When he needed help after Hazel broke her hip, I offered. The last year has been a beautiful gift in being able to spend days and nights helping her through her recovery. She was a strong woman…. with stories to tell and love to share. I will miss her dearly.