James Raymond Hopkins

As the music of Tom Petty, the Eagles and the Rolling Stones played softly by his bedside, James “Jim” Raymond Hopkins, 72, of Muskegon, MI passed away peacefully Thursday, September 5, 2024, at his Lakeside home. Jim was born on November 14, 1951, in his beloved Muskegon where he built his life.

Jim retired from Cannon Muskegon after nearly 30 years. A member of Prince of Peace Parrish for many years, he played guitar most Saturday evenings and sang his praises. Jim had a deep love for the Lord and found his greatest connection to Him along the beach with his toes in the sand. Summer was his favorite season. Throughout his life, Jim fed his soul along the beaches of Muskegon in awe of the sunrises and sunsets. He enjoyed both equally. The water called to him and gave him solace. It was his happy place.

Jim was an avid gardener, card player, woodworker and enjoyed cooking & canning alongside his wife, family, and friends. He found great joy being part of the Reeths-Puffer community when his children were young.

An animal lover from an early age, Jim often recounted attempting to nurse hurt animals back to health in his childhood bedroom dresser only for his mother to surprisingly discover them. He loved to fish, watch and feed the deer, birds & squirrels.

His friends filled him with happiness, as well. The list of friends is long and spans from his newest two-year-old friend who spent the summer next door to friends he has known since he was in grade school. Jim’s friends charged his soul. He loved a good joke and was always there to give a warm hug.

Jim’s most proud accomplishment in life was the family he created.

In 1970, Jim met his future bride Sue (née Beagle). The two proudly celebrated 50 years of marriage in February. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sue and their dog, Puddley; children, Chris (Kelly), Tony, Angie (Rob) Watson; grandchildren, Noah (Jessica, fiancé), Clare, Gage and Josie; sister, Jackie (Ev) Hopkins and brother Bill (Paula) Hopkins; nephew, Jeff (Kim, fiancé); niece, Jennifer (Joe) Rohrer; granddogs, Duke, Kali, Rip, Tuck; and his great granddogs, Koda and Nellie.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Jack Hopkins and Betty Hopkins; along with significant influences Kenny and Ruby McLean.

There will be a Celebration of Life starting at 12:30 pm on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at the VFW in North Muskegon (1061 Witham Dr., Muskegon, Michigan 49445) with a luncheon to follow. Come as you are.

In memory of Jim, the family plans to have a bench placed at the beach near Pier Marquette in his honor. If you would like to contribute there will be envelopes available at the Celebration of Life or donations can also be made via Venmo @JimHopkinsMemorialBenchFund

Jim’s family would like to extend a special thank you to all the nurses, doctors and hospital staff that cared for Jim as well as to Harbor Hospice for their kindness and compassion.

To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign the online guest book for Jim, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.NeptuneSociety.com.