LOUISE “KNIGHT” HOPKINS

Louise Knight Hopkins, age 72 of Talbott, TN passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, August 15, 2015 while being held in the arms of her beloved husband of 53 years, Coy Hopkins and surrounded by their children. Louise graduated from Morristown High School in 1961 where she was known for her beautiful smile and kindness to all. On December 22, 1961, Louise married the love of her life, Coy Hopkins. Born to this union were four children. She leaves behind son, Stephen Coy (Aundrea) Hopkins, daughters, Katherine Louise (Mike) Utter, Elizabeth Rose (Glen) Beaver, Rosemary Grace (Michael) Watkins, six grandchildren, Allison (Jacob) Bellissimo, Katey Hopkins and her fiancé Daniel Rossie, Lauren and Daniel Watkins, Moriah and Melody Beaver, she leaves behind her first great grandson, Bennett Coy Bellissimo, she also leaves behind one beloved sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Robert Parker. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Grace (Breeden) Knight, and three still born sisters, Mary, Mattie, and Maude.

After Louise enrolled her last child in school, she began working for Douglas-Cherokee Head Start while pursuing a degree from Walters State Community College in Child Development Technology and she graduated with honors in 1986. Louise especially enjoyed her years of teaching Home Bound students. She was known to serve not only her students but also their families as well. She delighted in helping others succeed. Louise retired from Head Start after 25 years of service. Louise was a member of the Jefferson County Genealogy Society and also gave tours at Glenmore Mansion for several years. She especially enjoyed researching her family genealogy and putting together scrapbooks. Louise professed salvation at the age of 21. Later she and Coy became charter members of Sartain Springs Missionary Baptist Church where she served as a Sunday school teacher throughout the years. Louise found great joy in organizing the annual Christmas caroling and delivery of fruit baskets to the sick and shut-ins. Louise also used her sewing skills to make costumes for the annual Christmas play. Louise and Coy were known for singing “their” song, “I’ve Been To Calvary”, many times throughout the years at church, their voices ringing out in beautiful harmony. The family wishes to thank the staff and care takers at Smoky Mountain Hospice. Each one became like family to Louise and Coy.

We also want to thank Barbara Rusinek for all she did in helping with the care of our mother. We also wish to thank our church family and our friends in the community who stopped by to offer their support and love during our loss. Louise was a loving wife, mother, and friend. She did so much to show her love to all. She will be greatly missed. Our loss is her eternal gain. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 18, 2015 at Sartain Springs Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Ronald Winstead, Rev. Roger Porter, and Rev. Lonnie Knight officiating. Graveside interment to follow in the church cemetery. Family will receive friends from 5:00 until 8:00 p.m. Monday, August 17, 2015 at Sartain Springs Missionary Baptist Church.