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555 West Amador
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Sara Hopkins Obituary
Sara attended schools in Las Cruces, and graduated from NMSU, where she was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha and the rodeo team. She then taught physical education for several years, before leaving that profession to return to raising kids and cows with Dale Hopkins, her husband and partner for 53 years. Together they had three children, Shelly Lynn Pringle (Ed), Danna Leigh Hopkins, and Leslie Dale Hopkins (Mark), and a grandchild, Danny Fahrenkrug, later to be joined by McKenzie, Kendra, and Josh (Amanda) Pringle. Sara is survived by a sister, Kathryn Crosby (Bob); husband, Dale; daughter Shelly; son, Les; grandkids, nieces/nephews, cousins and friends from every corner. She is presently reuniting with her parents, A.B. and Florence Cox; sister, Bonnie Ligon; her daughter, Danna Leigh, and others too numerous to name.
Although a rancher and cowgirl to her core - Sara was an outstanding member of the NMSU rodeo team, known for her barrel racing and horsemanship - she was also an artist, whose paintings of the Organ Mountains and working cowboys won her many fans. But perhaps her greatest gift was her teaching. She taught those lucky enough to be around her about wielding a pencil, a brush, a pair of reins, a rope, pliers, baling wire, and duct tape. While instilling confidence, she taught kids to think fast, improvise, laugh, and to be kind. Take care of the land and the animals on it - and leave a gate like you found it. While these lessons will endure, the teacher will be missed.
Sara's sendoff will be held at the Caballo Community Church in Caballo, New Mexico, on Thursday, April 2, at 10 a.m., with burial following later at Masonic Cemetery in Las Cruces. Pallbearers will be Twister Smith, Brett Smith, Hank Hopkins, Mark Ligon, Bo Turner, and Emmy Harvey. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Sara & Danna Leigh Hopkins Permanent Memorial Fund at New Mexico Boys & Girls Ranch Foundation Inc., PO Box 9, Belen, NM 87002-0009. Please visit www.lapaz-grahams.com for online condolences.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Sara Hopkins
Sallie Coltharp
February 19, 2023
I just saw this obituary for Sara.
It made me sad. As her cousin Sallie, I remember her precious sense of humor and special grin.
I´m now in Owasso,Ok, a widow & living in assisted living (Homestead). I´d love to hear from family!
Vickie Vallee
March 25, 2021
I Miss you ever single day! I know when I last spoke to you, you told me "I'm ready to go Vic" but I was honest when I said I wasn't ready for you to leave. You left 6 days later to be with your maker. The memories, the "teachings", our talks, riding to "your spot" and not saying a word, just taking in the beauty. You may not have been my Biological Mom, but you were definitely my spiritual one. Thank you so much for all you did for me and taught me...thank you for being a part of my journey! Until we meet again, you will be in my heart forever! ❤❤❤
May 7, 2015
I loved this crazy cousin!! We didn't see each other very often since we live far apart, but I will always have fond memories of SARA LOU!!! (Sallie Coltharp--first cousin--mom's were sisters)
April 8, 2015
Dale and family,
So sorry to hear about Sara. Our prayers are with you.
Gary & Judy Johnson
Susan Taylor Strong
April 4, 2015
Sara, will be missed by so many of us. I knew her in high school and at NMSU. I admired her and will miss her and know she is in heavenly pastures with beautiful horses.
Deb Olson
April 3, 2015
So Saddened to hear of Sara's passing. She was a great lady and touched so many lives. She will forever be in our hearts and memories.
Deb (Tempel) Olson
Bobby Hettinga
April 3, 2015
Sara and I used to walk back from class together in the NMSU days. She was the first real 'cowgirl' I ever knew, and always was a hero of mine! I know she'll be happy in heaven; there are lots of good horses there, including some of mine. Ride well, Sara!
Anita and Bill Stablein
April 2, 2015
I wish I had known her. Bill has so many fond memories.
Kay Nations
April 2, 2015
I knew Sara in high school and was lucky enough to visit and ride with her on the ranch. My folks were friends with the Cox's. They were so nice to me. Katherine so sorry for the loss of your sister and blessings to the whole family.
J. Amber (Davis) Walker-McClain
April 2, 2015
Although I never recall If we had the pleasure of meeting, I send my condolences to the entire Cox family. Prayers for strength during your time of grieving. May she fly high with the others.
(Lee side family member)
Mandolen Sanchez
April 1, 2015
Dale, Shelly, and Les I am extremely sorry for your loss. I am going to miss Sara and am going to miss getting to visit her at the cafe. My thoughts go out to you all at this time.
Tom & Alma Francione
April 1, 2015
Dale, our hearts are heavy with your loss of Sara. You and your family are in our prayers. God will get you and yours through this hard time and his love will make you strong. God Bless You.
Wesley & Mary K Danley
April 1, 2015
Dale, Our prayers are with you and your family.
Dianne Fraley Veitch
April 1, 2015
I had "Miss Hopkins" as a PE teacher at Loma Heights Elementary. I'll never forget what a strong, straight forward woman she was; a wonderful role model for both girls and boys of elementary-school age. May she now rest in peace and rise in glory.
Elizabeth Jones
April 1, 2015
My prayers to the family and may she have good horses to ride .
Kay Barrick Ricketts
April 1, 2015
While many years have passed, I remember Sara so fondly from high school days in LC and as an NMSU Zeta sister. Her Mom was also such a wonderful Zeta supporter. To Sara's family -- my best thoughts go out to you as you deal with the loss of such a really neat lady!
April 1, 2015
Dale, I'm so sorry for your loss, My parents Ruth and Joe Wiegel sure thought a lot of Sara and your whole family. My dad was sure proud of her and I treasure the painting she gave him, it hangs in my home. I've still got pictures of that good blue roan horse she gave him years ago.
Rod and Mary Lou Tharp
April 1, 2015
We were so very sorry to hear about Sara's passing---what a wonderful "good 'ol" ranch gal and from a sweet family of hard working people. Our prayers to all the children and their families, Rod & Mary Lou Tharp
Kip Bullock
April 1, 2015
Sad News
Victoria Mata
April 1, 2015
My condolences to the Hopkins family may she rest in peace
Sheri L. Bell
March 31, 2015
Dale, Shelley and Les..I am so sorry for your loss; Sara was a great woman and friend to many. She was my Mother's (Linda Bell) best friend growing up and until the end. I know they had a cherished visit with one another in September 2014 which turned out to be their last as they both had failing health and my Mother passed away shortly after their visit. I have no doubt they are together again and are at peace. Heaven has received two very sweet Angels to watch over us all. My deepest condolences to you all and God Bless You.
March 31, 2015
Dale (Outlaw as I remember) prayers to you and your family. I am the youngest daughter of Kenneth and Jeanette Storey. I remember momma telling great stories about her times with Miss Sara and am sure she will be missed greatly. May she rest in peace and im sure she and momma are reunited and at peace. Godd bless you.
Rena Storey
Walt Nester
March 31, 2015
Very sorry for your loss. It has been a long time but I remember jaw hat a great person she was.
Barbara Waggoner (Billups)
March 31, 2015
Sara taught me how to run barrels and poles which resulted in my first belt buckle win fifty six years ago. She was a wonderful person and a great teacher. Godspeed Sara.
Laura Vaughan-Bridges
March 31, 2015
I have many fond memories of Sara from the years we were neighbors on Corbett street. Thoughts and prayer from the Vaughan family to all of you.
Mara Weisenberger
March 31, 2015
For the past 20 years we have been blessed to call Sara our friend and neighbor. Our lives are much richer because of her kindness and all she shared with us. Dale, Shelly, and Ed, may Sara's peace be your comfort - the Weisenberger Family
Jackie Ramirez
March 31, 2015
My most sincere condolences to you, Les, and to your family. May God wrap you in peace and comfort to get you through this difficult time.
Brian O'Dell
March 31, 2015
Dale, my deepest condolence, thoughts and prayers.
Brian
March 31, 2015
Dale I am very sorry to here about your wife. God bless you and your family.Wayne
Bonnie Elder
March 31, 2015
I was blessed to meet Sara a couple of times. I bought some of her paintings of the Organ Mountains, right off of the walls in her home. I had a wonderful visit with her. What a hoot! Although I didn't know her well, I think of her every time I see her artwork. I'm sorry for the sadness her family and friends must be feeling. Hugs.
Pat Hill-Yandell
March 31, 2015
Rest in peace Sara. You brightened many a day for me back in our high school days. Sincere sympathy to all who loved Sara!
March 31, 2015
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. Jim and Welda Grider
Amy Pearson
March 31, 2015
So sorry about Sara- amazing Mom and horsewoman! I appreciate all she did for my family and I. I learned so much from her. Lots of love
Amy Pearson
March 31, 2015
God's blessings to all if you. You have our deepest sympathy and are in our thoughts and prayers.
Rusty & Sharon Hatley
Her colors will never run....
Vickie L. Vallee
March 31, 2015
My heart goes out to the Hopkins and Cox Families. She will be greatly missed and will forever remain a piece of my heart. Until we ride again Sara, keep em' smilin' in heaven!
Lowell@Pat Johnson
March 31, 2015
She was a great gal
Sharlene Harris Martinez
March 31, 2015
Dale, my condolences to you and your family. Sarah was a role model to myself and other young girls learning to ride and run barrels in Las Cruces.
Gloria Thomen
March 31, 2015
Oh so sorry for your loss.....Sara was a one of a kind treasure! She always had a smile and encouragement for all. Such great talent in so many ways. She definitely left this world a better place for us all. God Speed Sweet and Generous Lady, you leave huge shoes to fill. Dale, may everyday be filled with the Priceless memories you shared and kids remember your Mom with love and know that all of you were the most important part of her life. God Bless all of you and comfort you. Smiles! Gloria Chavez-Thomen
Sandra Manzanares
March 31, 2015
Les, my condolences to you and your family. May your mom rest in peace and may God give you the comfort and strength through this difficult time.
Nora Smith Gale
March 31, 2015
Heartfelt condolences to all of the family...even though I knew Sara my whole life, it was only as an adult I came to understand that she was one of my heroes. Tremendous condolences and love from our family...Nick, Nora, Vance, and Grayson Gale.
Jason Rivera
March 31, 2015
My condolences, thoughts and prayers to you and your family Les. Lots of love.
Amelita Hill
March 31, 2015
You did a wonderful send-off for your mom. I bet she and Bob Fox are at the round pen trying to decide. Which colt to try this year. They aren't really gone--they will be with us always. Love you guys
Elizabeth Cherry Comparin
March 31, 2015
To the Hopkins family, Sara was an inspiration to many, she will be missed.
Rudy Apodaca
March 31, 2015
My heartfelt condolences and prayers go to Dale and his family for the loss of Sara. Her smiles and laughs go back all the way to Las Cruces High, where I was privileged to be her classmate. We'll all miss her, and I especially will miss her one-of-a-kind personality.
Pam Walton
March 31, 2015
I am so sorry for your loss. Sara was a special lady leaving a great legacy. We pray for comfort for those left behind. Remember the reason for this Easter season, and it will ease your pain.
March 31, 2015
Sara was a wonderful person and friend she will be greatly missed
bernice
Noah Guzman
March 31, 2015
Les my friend, my condolences to you and your family on the passing of your Momma. Reading about her it is easy to see why you are the great person that you are, she sounds like an amazing woman. Cherish her memory, may those memories and the love you and your family shared for her help you through this difficult time. God Bless you all.
Margaret Humbert
March 30, 2015
Shelly & Les you are in our prayers..
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