Published on November 14, 2025 2:46 pm
Last Updated on November 14, 2025 2:46 pm
Freddie John Hopkins, a cherished son, husband, father, papa, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, on November 5, 2025.
He was born on March 7, 1951, in Shelbyville, Illinois, to Kenneth John and Shirley Janet (Rose) Hopkins, Freddie’s life was marked by love, service, and dedication to his family and country. A proud veteran, Freddie honorably served his nation with two tours in Vietnam as a member of the United States Army. His bravery and commitment to his fellow soldiers were commendable and set a precedent for the rest of his life’s endeavors. After his military service, Freddie transitioned to civilian life and, in the eighties, moved to Joplin, Missouri, where he began a distinguished 25-year career as a station engineer at Freeman Hospital. On July 5, 1973, Freddie married the love of his life, Beverly Eldona Stevens, in their hometown of Shelbyville, Illinois. Their union was blessed with love, laughter, and a beautiful family. Freddie’s devotion to Beverly was unwavering, and together they built a life full of joy and purpose.
Freddie leaves behind a legacy of love and is survived by his mother, Shirley Hopkins of Effingham; his wife, Beverly Hopkins of Seneca, Missouri; his children, Kenneth L. (Nickol) Hopkins of Seneca, Missouri, Jamie L. (Bryan) Askins of Cowden, Illinois, and Michael McDonough of Vinita, Oklahoma. His life was further enriched by his six grandchildren, Quentin, Lane, McKinzie, Johnna, Angela, and Jay, and his 13 great-grandchildren. Freddie also leaves behind his siblings, Debbie Munk of Effingham, Bill (Wendy) Hopkins of Fancher, and Roy (Rose) Hopkins of Cowden. His legacy will continue to live on through them.
Preceding him in death were his father, Kenneth John Hopkins; his grandson, Kaleb Hopkins; his siblings, Jimmy Dean and Kenneth Franklin; and his cherished son-in-law and hunting buddy, Billy McDonough.
Freddie’s passion for the outdoors was unparalleled. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, a love he eagerly passed down to his children and grandchildren. He believed in the importance of living off the land and took great pleasure in teaching his family these invaluable skills. As a member of the Shelby County Dive Team and an EMT for the Rescue Squad for many years, he served his community with the same steadfast dedication he gave to every aspect of his life. Those who knew Freddie will remember him as a man who was deeply family oriented. His grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Papa,” were the light of his life. The lessons he taught, the stories he shared, and the memories he created will be treasured by all who were fortunate enough to know him. Freddie lived a life full of purpose and service. His presence will be profoundly missed, but his spirit will continue to guide and inspire those he left behind. May he rest in peace, knowing he has left the world a better place for his having been here.
Freddie will be returned to the Lord on March 7, 2026, in Hornet Cemetery in Seneca, Missouri. Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Shelbyville is assisting the family. Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com.