William Neil Hopkins

William “Bill” Neil Hopkins passed away on October 22, 2024, at the age of 78, in Hutto Texas. Bill’s courage, determination and strength of will was shown each day as he battled the cancer that ultimately took his life. Despite his pain, he continued to tell stories and jokes right to the end.

Bill was born on September 27, 1946 in El Paso, Texas to William (“Bud”) and Ann (“Nina”) Hopkins. He attended and graduated from Andress High School in El Paso, Texas. After graduation, Bill was drafted and served honorably in the US Navy. He later worked for Tracor and Abbot Laboratories in Austin, Texas.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Sondra; his stepson Michael; grandchildren Alex, Kassondra, and Sebastian; great-grandson Xavier; and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; stepsons Matthew and Paulo; and his sisters Frances Camacho, Carol Eason and Marguerite Gonnell (the sister of his heart).

Bill was known for being a talker and storyteller. He loved people and loved to be surrounded by those who would talk (and listen to him) all day. A trip to the mailbox with Bill could take 2 hours as he stopped and checked in on his neighbors. He was the family’s local handyman and the first to be called when the AC went out during our hot Texas summers. He was a giver, volunteering his time, energy, knowledge and tools whenever needed. Most of all, Bill was a good man, and he will be missed.

Bill had requested no funeral service. A gathering of family and close friends will be planned for a later date. Bill asked that we honor him by following Jesus’ commandment in John 13:34: “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”