Gregory L. Hopkins

Gregory Hopkins, cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, left us on Saturday, June 3, 2023. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and commitment that has touched hearts around the world.

Raised in Long Beach, California, an important chapter began in 1975 as a graduate of Polytechnic High School and the University of LaVerne class of 1984. His prowess on the football field earned him accolades, including recognition in 'Who’s Who of America for Outstanding Achievement' in 1981. Post-graduation, he proudly suited up for the Los Angeles Raiders before serving as an all-seasons athletic coach at University High School and other public school sports teams.

Gregory's most beautiful chapter began in 1985 when he and his soulmate, Betty, embarked on their shared journey of life. As kindred spirits, they navigated life's peaks and valleys, relishing in the simple wonders of the world. Their collective passion for various cultures, animals, nature, sea and winged creatures, as well as the African-American experience past, present, and future, not only enriched their lives and also extended their learnings to those around them. They encouraged others to set aside their perspectives to truly embrace and understand the viewpoint of “the” another.

Their service to others stretched beyond personal boundaries, impacting communities in Compton, Santa Ana, Mexico, the Navajo Reservation, Jamaica, Rwanda, and Ghana.

Gregory is survived by his loving wife Betty, his cherished step-son Michael Lord and daughter-in-love Suki Arcebido-Lord, grandsons Kallel Lord and Anthony Baxstrum (son of Shauny B), siblings Walter Bateman, sister-in-love Roze Bateman, his sister Lisa Gideon-White, and sister-in-love Linda Archer-Barnes. He also leaves behind his godchildren Percy Daggs III, Cardin Morales, and Elizabeth Harrison, and many precious aunties and uncles—dearest nieces, nephews, and cousins. Life-long friends will miss him. Greg is joining his mom and dad, Elizabeth Daniels and Lumis Hopkins, and his remarkable grandparents who raised him, Mozella and Jessie Hopkins. He will also be greeted by dearly departed stepchildren Stephen and Sharon Lord and his two biological sisters, Della Marie Nyles and Linda Mozella Hopkins (Cookie).

A celebration of Gregory's remarkable life will be held on July 1, 2023, at 10:00 AM at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations to https://gofund.me/02ba3317 would be appreciated.

As we remember Gregory Hopkins, let his memory spur us to live fully, laugh heartily, and love deeply. As a devoted prayer warrior, Gregory's parting wisdom rings out to us all: “Go out there and give them heaven!"

GoFundMe

https://gofund.me/02ba3317

MEMORIAL SERVICE - LIVE ZOOM LINK

https://saddleback.zoom.us/j/3574058285