Betty McLean Hopkins

Betty McLean Hopkins died at her home Saturday evening April 9 2016. She was born May 14, 1928 in Lincolnton, NC. Virginia Miller and Robert Spence McLean were her proud parents. She grew up in Lincolnton surrounded by cousins across the street and next door. Betty left Lincolnton after graduating from Lincolnton High School to attend Mary Baldwin College in Staunton, VA. Betty, a gifted artist, moved to Atlanta in 1949 to pursue a career as an illustrator for Foote and Davies. At Foote and Davies she drew Betsy McCall paper dolls for McCall’s magazine. While in Atlanta, she met George Hopkins by closing the elevator door on him in their apartment building. This chance meeting in the elevator led to romance and marriage on August 21, 1954. Betty and George were married for 53 years until his death in 2006 and had 2 children, Laura McLean and Edith Cary. Betty was active in the parents association at Pace Academy and The Lovett School. The Fall Fair at Pace Academy had its beginnings with help from Betty and others as a school wide White Elephant Sale. She was also a volunteer at West Paces Ferry hospital and was a member of the UDC, DAR and a long standing member of the Cathedral of Saint Philip. She will be remembered for her engaging personality, great sense of humor and quick wit. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 pm on Tuesday April 12th at Patterson’s Arlington Chapel. A graveside service will be held at Arlington Memorial Park at 2pm on Wednesday April the 13th followed by a reception at the Hopkins home. She is survived by her daughters Laura Corrigan (Frank Jr.) of Atlanta, Edith Collins (James) Of Buford, her beloved grandchildren, Dr. Frank Corrigan, III (Alden), McLean Corrigan of Atlanta, Lollie Corrigan of Washington DC, her sister, Laura Taylor (Roy) of Columbia, SC, numerous nieces and nephews, and her cat, Thomas. In lieu flowers please give a donation to the Humane Society of Forsyth County in honor of her beloved Thomas. The family gives their great appreciation to Helen Adams, Raquel Ellis, and Catherine Holton who made sure that our Mother was happy, safe and comfortable.