David Earl Hopkins

He has survived by his wife, Beth, who loves him dearly! Sons Nicholas Hopkins, Stephen Hopkins (Haley Gullatt), brothers and sisters Robert, Donni, Wendy and Charles. So many nieces and nephews, he enjoyed talking to and telling his life story.

He has too many loyal friends to name each one. But please know you all meant so much to him. I want to thank Jim and Cindy Bacot for loving him for over 50 years. He loved you both.

Dave was not a man that you could forget, and certainly not compare to others. He was a Navy veteran where he was a communication specialist. He loved his country and all the veterans who serve this great country, and he was a true patriot.

After returning from service, he worked at ADSCO in Mobile. He was an over-the-road truck driver. He worked offshore. He worked at Gulf Coast Air and Hydraulics where he was awarded employee of the month many times. Through his selling of hydraulics, he made many friends who he often spoke of. He moved to North Carolina, where he was in charge of Amtrak maintenance, mechanical operations of the train. He retired from Canadian National Railroad after over 20 years of service “Highball Dave”.

He loved riding his Harleys and had many over the years. His first bike was a Honda 70 he got when he was 15 years old. He loved reading about and watching World War II films. He loved the Lord, reading the Bible, his family and Beth.

He spent many hours on the back porch watching the eagles. He enjoyed fishing and working on his bike. He was quick with a smile or a joke and loved to talk and have deep discussions with anyone that had a common interest. He was never at a loss for words or opinions. If he disagreed, he let you know. He had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh.

He was one of a kind and can never be replaced. He was deeply loved by his wife Beth. He took care of her. He was her rock and a protector, always loving and kind. She is devastated by his leaving too soon.

Visitation for David will be held from 12 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Pine Crest Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held in Grand Bay Cemetery at 2 p.m.

Some of Dave’s favorite verses:

Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. ~ I Peter 5:7

The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you. The Lord life up his countenance upon you, and give you peace. ~ Numbers 6:24-26

Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave nor forsake you. ~ Deuteronomy 31:6

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. ~ Philippians 4:13

He left us too soon, but he left us with so many happy memories.