Larry L. Hopkins, 76, of Shattuc, died Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at his home.
A memorial service will be Saturday, March 29, at 11 a.m. at Shattuc United Methodist Church with Pastor RC Merten officiating. Interment will follow at Pritchett Cemetery in Boulder. Visitation will be Friday, March 21, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Moss Funeral Home in Breese. There will be a second visitation on Saturday, March 29, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Shattuc United Methodist Church.
Mr. Hopkins was born April 11, 1948, in Vandalia, a son of the late Robert Gene and Esther (nee Whiting) Hopkins. He married Marsha Myers on Nov. 24, 1977, in Hillsboro, and she survives in Shattuc.
Mr. Hopkins’s life was defined by his deep love for his family, his dedication to education and his unwavering service to his country. A proud graduate of Patoka High School in 1966, Mr. Hopkins pursued higher education at Kaskaskia College and McKendree University before earning his master’s degree from Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville. His passion for learning led him to a fulfilling career in education, where he made a lasting impact on countless students as a teacher at Carlyle Community Unit School District #1 for over 30 years, primarily teaching 4th grade.
Mr. Hopkins also answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Navy. From 1971 to 1973, he served during the Vietnam War, rising to the rank of Ensign Officer before continuing in the Naval Reserves, where he attained the rank of Lt. JG.
Outside of his professional and military life, Mr. Hopkins found joy in simple pleasures. He was an avid gun collector and a proud member of the National Rifle Association. He enjoyed solving puzzles, watching movies and most of all, spending time with his beloved family. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on at their sporting events.
In addition to his wife, Mr. Hopkins is survived by his children, James (Jessica) Hopkins of Breese and Paul (Judith) Hopkins of Hillsboro; grandchildren, Savannah, Skyler and Sadie Hopkins and Brooklyn Hopkins; sister-in-law, Patricia (Patrick) Hummert of St. Charles, MO; and nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Francis and Dorcas (nee Rainey) Myers; and brother-in-law, Roger Myers.
In lieu of flowers, plants, and other gifts, memorials may be made to the Jared Burke Foundation or the Clinton County Honor Guard and will be received at the visitation or by mail, Moss Funeral Home, 535 N 5th St. Breese, IL 62230, who is serving the family. Expressions of sympathy can be sent to the family at www.mossfuneralhome.com.
