William Elden Hopkins
William Elden Hopkins, known affectionately as Bill to his friends and family, peacefully entered into the arms of Jesus on Feb. 28, 2026, in Chardon, Ohio. He was born on Dec. 5, 1938, in Connersville, Ind.
Bill’s journey through life was a testament to his strength, integrity and dedication. His life was a reflection of his unwavering commitment to his country and a heart filled with love for his family and the Lord.
He was a cherished husband to his loving wife, Betty, and a guiding light to his daughters, Vickie (Gary) and Valerie. His legacy continued through his grandchildren, David (Olivia) and their children, Adam and Silas; Jennifer (Jason) and their children, Greyson and Everlee; Stephen (Christina) and their children, Forest and Mae; England (Eric) and their child, Eleanor; Hannah (Richard) and their children, Easton, Elijah, Daxon and Riverlynn; Joshua (McKenzie) and their son, Joshua Jay; Paris; and Isaac.
Bill also shared a special bond with his sister, Patricia (Tom); brother Gary (Kelly); and nephew, Charles and all their families who will all hold his memory dear.
He is preceded in death by his parents, L. Francis and Dora Hopkins, sister, Mildred, brother Pete; and son-in-law, Ned.
Bill was a proud graduate of the Electrical Training Center in Columbus, Ohio, and honorably served in the Ohio National Guard. His expertise as a Master Electrician led him to work on many of the towering structures that define the Columbus skyline, while his precision and skill earned him the title of Rifle Expert in the Army National Guard. His passion for marksmanship was further showcased as he became a Grand American Trap Shooting Champion.
A devout believer in Jesus Christ, Bill lived his life by the Word of God. He had many favorite scripture passages, one of late being 1 Thessalonians 5:23: “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirt, soul and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” This verse was not only a source of personal inspiration but also a message he shared with others, encouraging them to find their strength in Jesus.
Bill’s interests were as rich and varied as the tapestry of his life. He cultivated beauty and sustenance through gardening, a skill he honed alongside his father and family.
A natural storyteller, Bill could captivate any audience with his real-life tales, each one underpinned by an unwavering commitment to the truth. His passion for genealogy led him to trace his mother’s lineage back to Scotland and his father’s lineage to Florida, weaving through the poignant narrative of the Trail of Tears.
A scholar of history, Bill delved into the complexities of United States history, Biblical history and the Scriptures with fervor and curiosity. His love for his roots was immortalized in a book documenting the history of Shawnee Hills, Ohio, where he grew up and spent most of his life.
Music flowed through Bill’s veins as he skillfully played the banjo and strummed both acoustic and electric guitars, filling his home with melodies of joy and worship.
In every aspect of his life, Bill was a beacon of hope, resilience and unconditional love. His presence was a reminder that life’s true richness lies in the relationships we nurture, the knowledge we seek and the faith we hold.
As we celebrate Bill’s life, we remember that our time on this earth is but a momentary passage and as Bill would say, quoting C.S. Lewis, “There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind.”
Today, as we bid farewell to a man of great stature, we do so with the assurance that his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he touched.
Bill was a beloved husband, son, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend. His legacy will shine brightly as a beacon of love, faith and family for generations to come. He loved relationships with all and would say as bidding goodbye, “I’m glad you got to see me” and laugh.
Visitation for family and friends will be held from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon, Ohio. The funeral service will begin at 12 p.m. Interment will follow at East Claridon Cemetery.
The family suggests donations be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741 or call 800-227-2345 or online at www.cancer.org.
Arrangements are entrusted to The Original Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
