Michael Yates Hopkins, age 64, went to his Heavenly Home on Tuesday August 4, 2026 at Jackson Madison County General Hospital after a short illness. He leaves behind his loving wife of 21 years, Denise, his Mother Shirley Hopkins of Hemet CA, his sister Donna Perez of Hemet CA, his brother John Hopkins of Hemet CA, his best friend Alex Kent of Brownsville TN, Uncles, Owen Hopkins of Ripley TN, and Tom Herwer of Indiana, a sister-in-law Donna Essner of Cape Girardeau, Mo, neices Libby Essner Bullard of Cape Girardeau, Mo and Morgan Hopkins of Pittsburg PA, and many cousins and friends. He was preceeded in death by his father George Hopkins.
Michael worked for Southwest Human Resources Agency for 17 years. His clients adored him. He made sure they were taken care of and would go out of his way to help them, be it take them to the store, buy them food and cigarettes or slip them money when they needed it.
Michael was one of a kind. He loved with all his heart. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, motorcycle riding and 4 wheeling with his wife Denise. He had extensive knowledge of guns and was an excellent marksman. He often said being in the woods restored his peace and spirit. He loved cars and made sure he had a new vehicle every few years. He took pride in his home and his yard.
More than anything he loved taking road trips with his wife out West. He often said it was the only time he felt true freedom.
His sense of humor was unmatched. You could always count on Michael’s quick wit for a good laugh. He will be sorely missed.
A memorial service will be held at Garner Funeral Home in Ripley, TN on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 2 pm with visitation at 1 pm. Pastor Mark McMinn officiating. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Garner Funeral Home for expenses toward services.
