Obituary of Mary Elizabeth Hopkins

Mary Elizabeth Marr Hopkins, 89, passed away Tuesday, March 24, 2020. She was born to Stanwood and Emma Mae Marr in Granite City, Illinois. She married her best friend and love, Joseph “Phil” Hopkins on September 27, 1952. They lived a life of faith and love through 58 wonderful years of marriage, living in 11 states, and moving 28 times, until Phil preceded her in death in January of 2011. For over 30 years, Mary was a beloved resident of the Country Place subdivision in Pearland, Texas, where she also served faithfully for many year as an active and devoted member of the First United Methodist Church. Her strong devotion to her faith brought a love of butterflies which signifies resurrection. Her life was a living example of the Bible verse, Ephesians 4:32 — “And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ. Mary was fortunate to have had many experiences that enriched her life, which included some of her favorite activities like playing bridge, square and ballroom dancing with Phil, cruises and watching her beloved Astros. She had a lifelong love of music, and for many decades sang in church choirs. She was a library volunteer when her kids were in school. She was an avid reader and her love of reading stayed strong throughout her life. She always had a book within reach. She was a member of the Red Hat Society and the vacation travel club. She was always excited to enjoy a great Mexican meal with a tasty margarita! Mary had a wonderful sense of humor that shined through the beautiful sparkle in her eyes when she was amused by those around her. Her most treasured pastime was spending time with her grandchildren, whom she loved dearly. Her strength, genuine character, kind, loving and gentle spirit will be remembered in the hearts of those she loved and those that loved her. Although her family and friends grieve the loss of such an amazing woman, they take comfort in knowing that Mary and Phil have been reunited. Mary is predeceased by her parents, Stanwood and Emma Mae Marr, and brothers Bill and Bud. Mary was the beloved mother to her son, Joe Hopkins, Jr.; daughters, Connie Witler and husband, Bobby, Nancy Averitt and husband, Edwin; and proud grandmother of David Hopkins and wife, Mary, Cassie Witler and Mandy Witler.