Joe Don Hopkins, aged 81, passed away peacefully at home on May 9, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, in the company of his devoted wife, Anne, and loyal dog, Truman.
Born on Sept. 5, 1944, Joe was raised in Childress, Texas, where he was a popular but rowdy kid and a natural athlete. He played basketball for Trinidad State College, followed by serving in the United States Marine Corps Reserves, and eventually graduated from the University of Houston.
He welcomed his first daughter, Ashley, in Dallas, Texas. Several years later, he welcomed his second daughter, Whitney, in Argyle, Texas. After marrying Anne, they had the privilege of living in Australia (twice), where they traveled the globe together, Salt Lake City, Utah and Michigan before returning to Texas.
Joe had many different jobs over the years, but his passion was helping people, especially in regards to job training, resume writing and interview skills. If you were to ask him who his favorite people were, he would reply, “Dogs.” In truth, it was his love for his grandchildren who he said gave him new life.
Joe is survived by his loving wife of over 32 years, Anne Balow Hopkins; daughter Ashley Langenbahn and sonin- law Bobby Langenbahn, of Boerne, Texas; and daughter Whitney McKinnon and son-inlaw Troy McKinnon, of Boerne. He was a proud grandfather to Will, Sam, Lily, Rory, Ainsley and Thea. He also leaves behind his sister, Billye Morgan, and brother-in-law Don Morgan, of Childress; and his cousin, Linda Smith, of Houston. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Ruby Hopkins, and his brother, Ted Roy Hopkins.
Joe attended Cibolo Creek Community Church with his daughter, Whitney, and her family, where he loved listening to the pastor and making new acquaintances. His gentleness and sense of humor will be missed most, but his body and mind are restored in Heaven with Christ Jesus.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Joe and his love of dogs can be made to Charming Pet Rescue at charmingpetrescue. org/donate.
