Bernita Mildred Hopkins

Born on January 20, 1934, in Fenton, Louisiana, Bernita Mildred Keys was the sixth of twelve children to Rev. Clinton Spencer Keys and Jeraline Keys. Raised in the church, she gave her life to Christ at Zion Tabernacle Church in Lake Charles, LA. At W.O. Boston High School, she excelled in basketball and developed a passion for caring for others, graduating in 1952 among the top 10 of her class. She attended nursing school at Kansas City General Hospital, becoming a registered nurse in 1956. After working in Missouri and Louisiana, she moved to Tacoma, WA, where she met, "her sweetie," John Hopkins on a blind date and married him in 1963.

She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy…

Bernita and John were well-known figures in The Hilltop neighborhood, always ready to welcome visitors. Whenever someone came by, Bernita had something prepared for them to eat. Her pantry was constantly stocked, ready to assist anyone in need with food or supplies. She maintained a food ministry and excelled at finding the best deals on groceries, making regular visits to local stores to ensure she got the lowest prices. Trips to the commissary were remarkable; every aisle had to be explored. Her skill with coupons was renowned, often combining them with store promotions to the extent that stores sometimes ended up paying her to buy items. She derived great joy from handing out coupons to other shoppers. Taking her to a restaurant was a challenge because she couldn't get past the menu prices. "I could feed the whole neighborhood for that," she'd say, "and they cook too quickly; I know what it takes to make good food." She relished cooking for guests and took pleasure in seeing them leave with their own bags of leftovers or groceries.

As passionate travelers, Bernita and John spent five years living in Tehran, Iran, where they formed numerous lasting friendships. Bernita had a way of never seeing anyone as a stranger. Once she met someone, she made an effort to stay connected and would call whenever she was nearby. Traveling by motorhome with Bernita and John was always an unforgettable experience, frequently filled with spontaneous detours to drop a line in a fishing hole or visit the roadside produce stands.

…She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue…

Bernita was someone you always wanted to be with. Her gracious and friendly nature made her a joy to be around. She was ever willing to fry some chicken or set up a game of pinochle. If pinochle wasn't your preference, she would happily beat you at a game of Scrabble.

Bernita was predeceased by her husband, John, and her firstborn, Milan (Deanna). She is survived by numerous family members and friends who will cherish the memories shared with her.

Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Proverbs 31:10-29