Gary Edmund Hopkins

Gary Edmund Hopkins was born on January 15, 1941 in Muskogee, Oklahoma to Walter and Juanita Hopkins. He grew up near Eufaula, Oklahoma and graduated from Eufaula High School in 1959. He also graduated from Central State College (which is now UCO) in Edmond, OK. Gary had a long career as an Insurance Property and Casualty Claims Supervisor for the Traveler’s Insurance Company, and as the Claims Manager for Kerr-McGee Corporation, from which he retired. He later worked for the State of Oklahoma for several years.

When his children were growing up, Gary was active in Youth Sports through the Putnam City Optimists programs, coaching girls’ basketball and softball and boys’ baseball. Gary and his wife, Becky, enjoyed many years of volunteering as Youth Sponsors at their church. They opened their home to the Youth for weekly Bible study groups and led small groups at various retreats and camps. Gary drove the church bus on many mission trips to Appalachia and Mexico, as well as to Colorado for youth ski trips.

In retirement, Gary loved playing golf regularly with his friends at River Oaks Golf Club and was active there until his death. He also enjoyed traveling with Becky, and with their family and friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Becky, and by their children Christi Yarnell (Kevin), Tyler Hopkins and Haley Wheat (Bobby), as well as their granddaughter, Eisley. He is also survived by his brother Scott Hopkins (Vel), and his sister Vada Gideon (Jim), along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at New Covenant Church at 2700 S. Boulevard, Edmond, OK 73013.

The family suggests, in lieu of flowers, a donation to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. Donations may be made at the link online, to PO Box 270968, Oklahoma City, OK 73137 or to a charity of your choosing.