Richard Rowe Hopkins, Sr., 75 of Charlotte, passed away on February 9, 2020 at his residence.   He was born September 1, 1944 in Charlotte, NC.  His birth was welcomed by his loving parents, Richard Lee Hopkins and Lena Grier Hopkins  A few year later, Richard was overjoyed to become a big brother to Charlie.

Upon the passing of Mama Lena, Richard, Charlie and their father moved to Ohio.  Soon thereafter, Mr. Hopkins took Richard and Charlie to his native home, Brooksville, Mississippi to live with their grandmother and aunt for a brief time.  Later the children were sent back to Charlotte where their loving aunt, Bessie Johnson "Aunt Sis" raised them to adulthood.  Richard became involved in the activities of the "Third Ward Community where they lived.  The highlight of his youth was winning The Charlotte News Yoyo Contest.

Richard attended Charlotte City Schools graduating from York Road High School.  After high school, Richard worked at Charlotte Pipe Foundry and Armour Meat Company.  Encouraged and guided by two successful businessman, the late John McDonald and Cicero Grier, Richard opened the Mini Pantry, the first Black owned convenience store in the LaSalle Street/Beatties Ford Road Corridor.  A few years later, he added an ice cream parlor, The Scare Crow.

Richard was a golfer, a cyclist and a basketball enthusiast.  As a young man, he enjoyed playing pick up basketball in the park.  Later, he became a golf enthusiast.  Richard enjoyed riding the bicycle trails with the "Spiritual Riders."  Richard was also respected for his talent as an artist.

Richard was a faithful member of Woodland Presbyterian Church where he served as an usher, deacon and member of the Presbyterian Men.  He most enjoyed singing with the Men's Choir.

In 1969, a neighbor invited Richard over, and there Richard met Madge.  On December 27, 2019, Richard and Madge celebrated 50 years of marriage.  They were blessed with two children: Lena Janelle and Richard Rowe, Jr.  Richard was father to Richard McIlwain, Yolanda Hopkins and Vickie White.  Vickie and Richard McIlwain preceded him in death.

Richard is survived by his wife, Madge; daughters, Lena Janelle Hopkins Jackson and Yolanda Marion; and son, Richard Rowe Hopkins, Jr. (Michelle). He is survived by seven adorable grandchildren:  Wayne White, Alisha Wilson, Jordan Brazwell, Solomon Jackson, Layla Marie and Rowe Allen Hopkins; and his "buttercup," Brianna Marie Drakeford; great-grandchildren, Christian, Mason, Zyon and Taylor; brothers-in-law, Larry Strong (Jackie) and William Strong; and sister-in-law, Bernice Carmen.

Lastly, in a highly beloved place, he leaves his brother Charlie, his very best friend, his spiritual guide and confidante.

We All Love Your, Richard.