Melvin L. Hopkins

Melvin L. Hopkins, 82 of Hortense, GA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, (May 7, 2009) . He was known affectionately as "Hoppy" by all of his family and friends. He was born on May 4, 1927, to the late Charles & Elizabeth Hopkins in Devils Lake, ND. He was a native of the area until 1944, when he joined the U.S. Navy and served his country during the World War for 6 years. Afterwards, he attended the Forestry School in Lake City, FL to further his career. In 1953 he met the love of his life, Janie. He affectionately called her his "Lady Bug". They fell in love and were married a short time later. They were married for 53 years. During their marriage he went to the University of Georgia, majoring in forestry. He retired from the U.S. Forestry Service in Asheville, NC with over 20 years of service. All during his life he had a passion for dancing with his Lady bug and friends, his family, the outdoors, wildlife, NASCAR, and collecting beer can. He was an active member of the American Legion Post 181 in Blackshear, GA and VFW #4382 in Waycross, ,GA. Hoppy was also a member of the Forestry and Wildlife Management and the Audubon Society. On December 9, 2005, he lost his best friend and companion. The love of his life, his Lady Bug, Janie. Just a few months later on May 28, 2006, he lost his youngest son, Roger D. Altman. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Franklin and Joyce Altman of Hortense, GA and his daughter-in-law, Donna Altman of Fernandina Beach, FL and his grandchildren, Robin, Teresa, Loren, Karen, Tammy, Gina, David and Victoria; 10 Great Grandchildren and 2 Great -Great-grandchildren; his sister, Rose Everets of Spokane, WA and a brother, Russell Hopkins of Devils Lake, ND; and his loyal caretaker, Betty Sims of Hortense. The family will be receiving visitors Friday evening from 5 to 8 pm at Frye Funeral Home, Nahunta. The funeral services will be held Saturday (May 9, 2009) at 2 p.m. at the Satilla Missionary Baptist Church, Hortense, with Rev. Daniel Harris and Chaplain Irvin Rozier officiating. Pallbearers will be Mike Kersey, Buddy Sellers, Charley Nose, Bill Rowland, Amel Landgraf and Ray DePratter. Honorary pallbearers will be Loren Altman, David Altman, Ed Ingram and Kathy Chancey. He will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife at the Satilla Cemetery, Hortense, GA. Sympathy may be expressed by signing the online registry at www.fryefh.com