Robert “Bob” Jordan Hopkins, a beloved member of the Statesville, N.C., community, passed away on April 3, 2024, after a brief illness. He was born on October 12, 1933, in Plymouth, N.C., to the late Kenneth and Inez Hopkins. Bob was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, energetic great-grandfather, and a friend to many, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and service.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Inez Hopkins; his three sisters, Martha Carpenter, Dossie Hopkins, and Myrtle Westmoreland; and his stepson, Brett Chambers.
He is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Linda Hopkins; his son, Mark Hopkins and wife Alex; his daughter, Beth Zayicek; and stepdaughter, Kim Cook and husband Ed. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Sam Montgomery, Matt (Maria) Montgomery, Jordan (Dustin) Hopkins, Cameron Hopkins, Spencer (Lindsay) Cook, Samantha (Manny) Chambers, and Brittany (Daniel) Warricks; and nine great-grandchildren.
Raised on a small family farm, Bob learned the value of hard work, dedication, and compassion from an early age. After graduating from high school, he proudly served his country in the Army during the Korean War. Following his military service, Bob continued his education and earned his engineering degree from Gaston College.
Bob had a passion for working with his hands and spent countless hours in his workshop, building things for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and lending a helping hand to others in need. The grandchildren’s science projects, developed by “Daddy/Pa Pa Bob,” consistently won top awards! A skilled handyman, Bob was known for his ability to fix anything. His generosity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to helping others left a lasting impact on all who knew him.
Bob was deeply committed to his community and was actively involved in various civic organizations, including the Statesville Exchange Club, where he served as president for many years and achieved an impressive 25 years of perfect attendance. He led numerous projects aimed at bettering the community he loved so dearly. He and his wife Linda were active in many charities, including SCAN, March of Dimes, and the Children’s Homes of Iredell County.
A funeral service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held on Tuesday, April 9, at 2 p.m. in the Westmoreland Chapel at Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home, followed by a graveside service in Oakwood Cemetery. Visitation to receive friends and family will begin immediately before the service at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gordon Hospice House, 2347 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625, or to Pharos Parenting (formally SCAN of Iredell), 1602 Davie Avenue, Statesville, NC 28677, in honor of Bob’s compassionate spirit and dedication to serving others.
Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is serving the family.
So sorry to hear of Bob’s passing! He was very well liked. I worked with Bob and Linda. I remember one day Bob needed to go pick up his airplane in Gastonia and he ask Mike and I to go with him to get it. Our boys were small, but so excited to go. Bob let them (help) fly his plane. I brought his car back to Statesville airport and he then flew us around Statesville/Harmony area. We had a great time! He will be missed. Sending prayers for Linda and the family. Mike and Teresa Barnette