

Brenda Rochelle Hopkins, 81, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was born August 9, 1944, in Fort Wayne to the late Sylvester and Cecelia Mae Trigg. She received her wings on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Stillwater Hospice. Throughout her life, Brenda was beloved and known for her compassionate spirit, steadfast loyalty, and quiet resilience that carried her through every season with dignity.
Brenda graduated from Stovall Beauty School and worked many years as a beautician. Her strong work ethic also led her to employment at Magnavox, Sears, Aion, and The Fort Wayne Newspapers. In each role, she was devoted and dependable, offering honest effort and selfless commitment in the everyday ways that left a lasting mark.
On January 6, 1961, Brenda married Edward Hopkins, III, who preceded her in death on June 8, 2024, after 63 years of devotion. From their union were born three children. She leaves cherished memories to her daughter, Karen Hopkins-Martin; sons, Kim (Sylvia) Hopkins and Keith Hopkins; seven grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. "Bea" as she was fondly known, was also preceded in death by her brother, Vester Lewis Trigg and daughter-in-law, Kimberly Hopkins.
Brenda cherished time spent traveling the country with her husband, and she found joy in playing Bingo, visiting the Casino, browsing and purchasing home shopping networks. Whether in simple pleasures or shared adventures, her devotion to family and her wise, steady presence were felt by all who knew her.
A faithful member of Union Baptist Church, Brenda remained active in several originations over the years, living her values through consistent service and sincere care for others. Her compassion was not performative, but practiced—shown in loyalty, in hard work, and in the strength, she offered when it mattered most.
Brenda loved her family dearly and will always be remembered for her story time tales and her unapologetic honesty. Graceful and elegant, with a spirited sense of style, she carried herself with beauty and confidence that reflected the strength within. Her legacy endures in the lives she nurtured, the love she gave freely, and the example of resilience, wisdom, and devotion she leaves behind.
Funeral Services Celebrating Brenda's Life will be 11:00 am Friday, July 17, 2026, at Union Baptist Church 2200 Smith Street (46803) with visitation one hour prior to services. Burial will follow in Concordia Gardens Cemetery.
Arrangements are by D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Homes - Lakeside Park, 1140 Lake Avenue - Fort Wayne, Indiana 46805.
Fond memories may be shared at www.mccombandsons.com for the family.
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