Mrs. Sylvia L. Hopkins' Obituary
Sylvia Lanette Jones Hopkins was born January 29, 1960, the first and only daughter of the late Leonard and Emma Lee Andrews Jones in Meridian, Mississippi.
As a child, Sylvia accepted Jesus Christ as her savior at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, Meridian, MS. She was nurtured in faith and was active in various ministries. Later in life, she joined West Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church where she served as the First Lady for 28 years. Under her tenure, she also served in the capacity of Sunday School Teacher, Youth Leader, and 3rd Vice President of the Mission Ministry.
Sylvia was a product of Meridian Public School District and later received a bachelor's degree from Jackson State University. Upon completion, she was employed by the district where she served for 33 years. She was a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Meridian Chapter.
Sylvia was united in holy matrimony to Rev. Odell Hopkins, the love of her life, on May 29, 1994. Through this union, she gained a host of godchildren.
Sylvia was a talented and fun-loving woman who enjoyed life and took advantage of every opportunity to learn, teach, and spread the love of Jesus Christ. She loved cooking, entertaining, and spending time with family and friends. Through her ministry, she served as a daily motivator and inspired friends and family with devotion and prayer. She was musically inclined, loved to sing, and labored in the gospel for 64 years. Sylvia could often be heard quoting "Be ready, don't get ready."
"Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, So that he shall have no need of spoil ...
Strength and honor are her clothing; And she shall rejoice in time to come. She opened her mouth with wisdom; And in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looked well to the ways of her household, And does not eat the bread of idleness.
Proverbs 31:10-11, 25-27
The First Lady slept away peacefully in the arms of Jesus on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Emma Lee Andrews Jones, and her beloved father, Leonard Jones.
Sylvia leaves to cherish her memory, her husband of 30 years, Rev. Odell Hopkins; brother, Jeffrey (Jean) Jones of Meridian, MS; niece, Lacey Jones of Meridian, MS; great nephew, Mekhi Jael Kelly of Meridian, MS; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, Sorors, and friends.
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