John Ray Hopkins

In Loving Memory of

With deep love and gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of our beloved John R. Hopkins, who passed peacefully on February 9, 2026, surrounded by family. John was born on January 29, 1949, in Rockcastle County, Kentucky, to Geraldine Carmack Hopkins and Earl P. Hopkins. 

John grew up in Lexington, Kentucky, where he showed curiosity, determination, and a strong work ethic from an early age. As a young boy, he delivered the Lexington Herald-Leader newspaper on his bicycle and motor scooter. Beginning at age fourteen and continuing through his college graduation, he worked at Howard Johnson’s Motel.

John and Susan were high school sweethearts, and were married in Ashville, North Carolina in 1968. Together they shared fifty-seven years of marriage, building a life rooted in family and community. Their daughter, Holly, was born in Lexington, Kentucky in 1969. John earned his degree in Accounting and Business from the University of Kentucky in 1973.

John, Susan, and Holly moved to Melbourne, Florida, where he began his career at Hentschel, Choate and Crawford, CPAs. He eventually became a respected founder and partner of Berman Hopkins, CPAs and Associates, LLP. As a CPA and businessman in the Melbourne community, John built his professional life on trust, integrity, and work ethic, carrying forward the steady presence and devotion that defined him until his retirement.

John’s commitment extended far beyond his profession. John was a member of Holy Trinity Episcopal Church for over forty years. He served the community through leadership roles with many organizations including: the Eau Gallie Lions Club, Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy School Board, Brevard Heart Foundation, Junior Achievement, Habitat for Humanity, The Scott Center for Autism, and the Melbourne Chamber of Commerce. In recognition of his lasting impact, he was honored by many organizations; notably he was inducted into the Junior Achievement of the Space Coast Business Hall of Fame and received the William R. “Bill” Ellis Legacy Award from the Melbourne Chamber of Commerce.

While his professional accomplishments were significant, his greatest joy was his family. He treasured time spent with his grandchildren, Emily Lloyd Cleveland, and Elizabeth Hopkins Cleveland, whom he called his “little chipmunks.” He loved traveling with them, sharing adventures and creating memories that will be cherished. Together they explored England, Scotland, Ireland, Italy, Turkey, France, Spain, Greece, and many beautiful places in the United States. Whether it was a trip to the movies, a family vacation, or simply an afternoon together, he made every moment meaningful.

John loved golf and took pride in playing courses across the United States and internationally in Ireland, Scotland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. He had a great enthusiasm for sports cars, owning several over the years that brought him much happiness. He had a love for music, and in his last several years he was learning to play the guitar. He was a devoted fan of University of Kentucky basketball and football, rarely missing a game and always cheering, “Go Cats.”

To his grandchildren, he was larger than life. He believed in doing things the right way and passed that lesson on simply by example. Whether offering guidance or telling stories from years gone by, he made everyone feel cherished and safe. His love was constant and deeply rooted, and his family will forever carry his lessons, his humor, and his strength.

Most importantly, John believed in people. His counsel was valued by colleagues and friends alike, and his words were sincere, heartfelt, and carried weight.

He leaves behind his wife, Susan Skaggs Hopkins; his daughter, Holly H. Cleveland; his grandchildren, Emily and Elizabeth; siblings: Darlene Adams (Paul), Robert Hopkins (Dottie), Kathy Snowden, Connie Ritchey (Mickey); and sister-in-law Elizabeth Skaggs White. He took a loving role in the lives of his many nieces and nephews: Stephanie, David, Todd, Josh, Scott, Phillip, Matt, Bryan, Christopher, and Adam.

We celebrate the life of John R. Hopkins. He will be missed and forever remembered by his family and friends.

Services will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 50 W Strawbridge Ave in Melbourne.

 In his memory and lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Club Esteem: 3316 Monroe St, Melbourne FL 32901, or Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy: 5625 Holy Trinity Dr Melbourne, FL 32940.