Obituary published on Legacy.com by Legacy Funeral Home-Heritage Chapel at Angelus on Oct. 1, 2025.
Mr. Tyrone Hopkins of Richmond, Virginia, was born on July 21, 1957, to the late Reverend Ethel Murphy and William T. Hopkins. On Friday, July 25, 2025, at the age of 68, Tyrone was called home to be with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Tyrone received his education through the Henrico County Public School system in Virginia. At an early age, he accepted Christ and became a member of Moore Street Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia.
Tyrone was a man of adventure, heart, and resilience. He had a deep love for the outdoors-finding joy in camping, fishing, and cheering on his favorite football team, the Washington Commanders (formerly known as the Redskins). His journey to Alaska was as spirited and unforgettable as he was. It began at the State Fair in Richmond, Virginia, where he joined the fair's traveling crew and ventured to Florida. From there, he took a bus to visit his sister Angie in La Palma, California. His travels continued by bicycle through Tijuana, Mexico, then up the West Coast through California, Oregon, Washington, and into Canada, eventually reaching his final destination-Alaska.
Along the way, Tyrone encountered countless kind-hearted people who offered him shelter, support, and even contacted his family to let them know he was safe. One memorable moment included a call from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to his mother after his bicycle was stolen, assuring her of his well-being. Tyrone cherished his family deeply, staying in touch often and sending memorabilia from Alaska to share his experiences.
In Alaska, Tyrone worked in a variety of unique and demanding roles, including aboard crab fishing boats, in seafood canneries, lawn service, and at The Lakefront Millennium Hotel. He took pride in his work and often shared the fruits of his labor with loved ones back home, sending Alaskan salmon, king crab legs, and canned goods he helped produce. Tyrone stayed closely connected with his family, frequently calling and video chatting. He especially enjoyed walking through the halls of The Lakefront, introducing his coworkers to his family during those calls, always eager to share his world with those he loved.
Tyrone was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Reverend Ethel Murphy; his father, William T. Hopkins; his uncle, Author Lee Jackson; his sister, Patricia Hopkins; his daughter, Tonya Phillips; and his grandchildren, Alexander Patrick Jr., Mason Allen, and Nicholas Allen.
Tyrone leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. He is survived by his stepfather, William Larry Murphy; his children Nakita Allen (Damon), Tyrone Hopkins Jr., and Brandon Hopkins; his grandchildren, Nya Patrick, Jada Hopkins, Tyrone Hopkins III, Haley Scott, Nevaeh Stokes, Brandie Hopkins, Brittanie Hopkins, and Brandon Hopkins Jr.; and great-grandchildren, Princeton Harvley, Noah Harvley, and DaiLani Hopkins. He is also remembered by his siblings, William (Bennie) Hopkins, Peggy Peyton (Melvin Jr.), Angela Murphy, and Larry Murphy (Melissa), along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to all of Tyrone's friends, neighbors, and coworkers-you were his family away from home. Special appreciation goes to The Lakefront Hotel Anchorage, St. John United Methodist Church, Providence Alaska Medical Center, and Legacy Heritage Chapel at Angelus for the kindness and support shown to his family during their time in
Anchorage, Alaska.
Tyrone's life was a testament to adventure, hard work, and the enduring power of connection. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
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