Roddy Lynn Hopkins

Roddy Lynn Hopkins, 68, long-time resident of Grand Prairie, passed away on Friday, July 27, 2017 in Arlington, Texas. Visitation: 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, August 6, 2018 at Guerrero-Dean Funeral Home. Graveside Service: 2:30 p.m. Tuesday at DFW National Cemetery. Roddy Hopkins was born on October 1, 1949 in Paris, Texas, the oldest of 4 children. He would move to Grand Prairie at a young age, attending schools graduating from Grand Prairie High School in 1968. On September 22, 1969, Roddy would begin his service in the US Army. He quickly distinguished himself as a true leader and point man for company D in the 3rd Battalion of the 23rd Infantry Division. The following is a letter written on his behalf. Awarded: Silver Star Date of Service: 21 October 1970 Authority: by direction of the President under the provision of the Act of Congress, approved 9 July 1918. For gallantry in the action against an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam, Private First Class Hopkins distinguished himself by intrepid actions on 21 October 1970 while serving as a Patrol Leader with Company D, 3d Battalion, 21st Infantry. On that date, the company was conducting a search and clear operation when when enemy activity was detected within 50 meters. With complete disregard for is own personal safety, he unhesitatingly braved the intense volley of fire impacting near him to maneuver toward the enemy emplacement. Through his timely and courageous actions, he was largely responsible for the total defeat of the hostile element and the overall access if his units mission. Not only was he awarded a Silver Star, he also was awarded a Bronze Star. His service to his country is greatly admired by all who know him. When time allowed and Roddy was feeling well, he loved playing golf. He also enjoyed watching the Texas Rangers baseball team. Survivors: wife of 7 years, Barbara Samples Kelley; siblings, Kevin Stockin and his spouse Shelly, Rexanne Stockin, Jamie Stockin; niece, Kim Villarreal and her spouse Joe. He also leaves behind his loving companion and pal rat terrier, Scooter. A letter from a friend: Roddy was a kind-hearted soul that never me a stranger. If he liked you, you knew it because he always tried to put a smile on your face and make you feel welcomed. He always has an interesting fact or tidbit about something. In many ways, we were two peas in a pod with way too many factoids together. Roddy had a knack of being so enthusiastic about something that you began to love that thing almost as much as he did. Case in point, I never knew that Barbara was a die-hard Texas Ranger fan until I saw her watching a game with Roddy. They were both so excited that you couldn't help but pay attention and cheer along with them. Barbara and Roddy were a great match for each, and it was equally infections in how much they loved each other. Roddy loved his friends and they loved him. It says a lot for someone who managed to keep in touch and close to many of the same friends from his childhood and younger years. Roddy was a true war hero but he never thought of himself as a hero. I had the privilege of him quietly sharing how he was awarded the Silver Star Medal. He didn't think it was something special but rather just something that he did for his buddies. Roddy didn't think of himself as anything different than you buddy. Well, I will miss my buddy Roddy. I will miss listening to the Allman Brothers Bank, drinking a beer, and spending time with a rare soul that always shared his true self and who was always happy to be your friend! Till next time bud!

Roddy Lynn Hopkins

October 1, 1949 - July 27, 2018