Gifford Joseph Hopkins, loved the Lord

Gifford (Gilt) Joseph Hopkins, 71, of Georgetown was born Dec. 28, 1947, to the late Tom Hopkins and Cordelia Isler Hopkins. On Tuesday, May 21, 2019, surrounded by family and friends at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital in Seaford, it was God’s desire to call him home.

He received his education through Millsboro 204 and William C. Jason School. As a young man, Gifford worked as a chicken catcher until he established a business with his brother known as Hopkins and Hopkins. Later he became a weigh master until his retirement. After his retirement, Gifford obtained a job as a senior companion with First State Community Action in Georgetown.

Gifford was truly the definition of a hard worker and provider for his family and others. He was known for playing softball and baseball. He was the best short-stop in Delaware. His favorite football team was the Washington Redskins and his favorite baseball team was the New York Yankees. He loved listening to quartet songs.

Gifford truly loved the Lord. His favorite scripture was John 14. He began his early years at St. John 2nd Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Clarence Nebraska Sample. During that time he was a member of the Male Chorus and the Trustee Board.  He continued his Christian journey there under the leadership of the Rev. Annie J. Custis until his death.

On April 14, 1984, he married the love of his life, Violet Louise Briddell. They celebrated 35 years of marriage this year.

He was preceded in death by his father, Tom Hopkins; his son, Kenneth Hopkins; brothers, Tom Hopkins Jr. and the Rev. Fred Hopkins; and brothers-in-law, Clarence Justice and Larry Shellton.

He leaves to cherish his memory and to carry on his legacy his mother, Cordelia Hopkins; loving wife Violet Hopkins; four children, Delema Shelton (Troy) of Salisbury, Md., Rodney Hopkins (Finisha) of Seaford, Perry Hopkins of Georgetown and the Rev. Marcus D. Briddell (Melissa) of Middletown; nine grandchildren, Quayshetta  (Rozelle), Shalamar (Michael), Jarell, Akeam (Lil Gilt), Devosha, Perry, Rodnique (Jamare), Kyle and Semaj; nine great-grandchildren, Dwayne Jr., My’tez, Myrion, My’Kale, Shemar, Heavenly, Harmony, Zy’Asia and Zyaire; one great-granddaughter, A’Lonna; six brothers, William Hopkins (Joyce), Elton Hopkins (Mae), Robert Hopkins (Margaret), Nathaniel Hopkins (Sue), Apostle Ivory Hopkins (Evelyn) and Charles Maddox (Liz); seven sisters, Lovey Hopkins, Delores Justice, Mary Watson (Arthur), Shirley Shellton, Levola Hopkins, Regina Taylor and Stephanie Dukes (Rozzell); eight brothers-in-law, Robert (Jerry), Sylvester (Patricia), Leon, James (Loretta), Victor (Michelle), Ronald (Bea), Donald (Renee) and Lynn (Shannon); one stepsister, Eunice Morris; three sisters-in-law, Anjolene (Robert), the Rev. Wanda Hopkins and Carolyn Hopkins; uncle Josiah Isler (Brenda); three godchildren, Sabrina (Donald), Travis (Jamie) and Kevin; extended daughter, Paula (Marlow); caregivers, Terry and Annette Nock; several children that he considered his grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and friends that loved him very much and will miss him dearly.

The family would like to acknowledge with deep appreciation the many expressions of love, concern and kindness shown to them during this hour of bereavement. Please know that your acts have not gone unnoticed. We ask that you continue to lift us in prayer as we will you. May God Bless and Keep You!  

Viewing will be held Friday, May 31, 6 to 8 p.m., at St. John 2nd Baptist Church, 26602 Mt. Joy Road, Milsboro. Celebration of life will be held Saturday, June 1, at St. John 2nd Baptist Church at noon. Family and friends may visit two hours prior to service.

Professional service entrusted  to Bennie Smith, Millsboro. To offer words of comfort, or sign the guest book go to www.benniesmithfuneralhome.com.