Obituary of Hugh Caldwell Hopkins

Hugh Caldwell Hopkins, died at his home in Rural Retreat, Virginia on April 29, 2021. Born on June 15, 1949, the son of Stephen VanCulen Hopkins and Cornelia Edmiston Hopkins, Hugh grew up in Maplewood, New Jersey. His favorite childhood memories were of spending time at Point of Woods on Fire Island, New York. Participating in Boy Scouts created many additional memories, skills, and a lifelong friend. Receiving his Eagle Scout Award was a source of pride. After high school graduation, Hugh attended the College of William and Mary, where he made lifelong friends. He received his bachelor’s degree with a major in Foreign Languages. During that time, Hugh hitchhiked throughout the United States and Europe. Upon receiving his education certification from Wm & Mary, Hugh began his teaching career. After meeting and marrying Brenda Wilson Hopkins, Hugh accepted a first-grade teaching position at Max Meadows Elementary School in Wythe County. He retired after 30 years of being a devoted teacher to young children, who often needed the attention of a positive male influence. Throughout the years, Hugh and Brenda continued his love of traveling by exploring various parts of the U.S. and Europe. He enjoyed cooking chili with his best buddy, even going to the World Cook-Off. Hugh’s greatest accomplishments were being a fun-loving Poppa to his daughter Chandler and an abundant source of positivity for his wife, Brenda. Hugh was happiest when outdoors, especially, in the snow. During his retirement he embraced his love of the outdoors by working for the Town of Rural Retreat mowing grass and riding the trash truck. He volunteered for the Rural Retreat Depot Farmer’s Market selling raffle tickets and, also, maintained a vegetable garden. Hugh is survived by his wife, Brenda, and his daughter, Chandler Caroline Hopkins. Also, surviving is his sister, Jennifer Hopkins McDowell, his brother, Stephen VanCulen Hopkins, and several nieces and nephews. A private memorial is planned at a future date. Friends are welcome to come to the home Sunday, May 2, 2021 from 2 PM until 5 PM at 210 W. Baumgardner Ave. Rural Retreat Va. 24368. Donations may be made in Hugh’s honor to The Rural Retreat Depot Foundation In memory of Hugh Hopkins P.O. Box 843 Rural Retreat, VA 24368 Or Wythe County Public Schools Foundation for Excellence In memory of Hugh C. Hopkins P.O. Box 815 Wytheville, VA 24382. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.grubbfuneralhome.com Grubb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.