Command Sergeant Major (RET) Nathaniel Hopkins

Command Sergeant Major (RET) Nathaniel Hopkins, affectionately known as Nate, passed away on October 14, 2025, at the age of 70 in Junction City, Kansas. Born on November 9, 1954, in Lewes, Delaware, Nate dedicated his life to serving others both in his military career and in his community.

Nate enlisted in the United States Army in 1976, rising to the rank of Command Sergeant Major (E-9) and honoring a distinguished career that spanned 29 years. His dedication to his service and leadership was evident in the way he mentored young soldiers and inspired them toward personal and professional growth, cultivating a spirit of learning among those he guided. His pride in his accomplishments extended beyond the military; he was a committed member of New Church of The Living God, where he served as a Deacon and took on responsibilities such as providing security. His work with the church community underscored his faith as a true believer in the Lord.

He married the love of his life, Sue, on December 24, 1977, in Leesville, Louisiana. Together, they cherished large family reunions and holiday gatherings, with Christmas being Nate's favorite celebration. His warmth and engaging personality made him a central figure in family traditions and memories. He loved spending quality time with his loved ones, relishing every opportunity for fellowship and good food.

Nate’s interests extended to fishing, working on cars, and computers, reflecting his hands-on, hardworking nature. He was known for taking charge and being inspiring, loving, and embodying the qualities of a devoted provider.

As we remember Command Sergeant Major Nathaniel Hopkins, we also celebrate a life of unwavering dedication to family, friends, and community. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the lessons he imparted. His life spoke for him, and his character demonstrated that his soul was "Anchored in the Lord."

Nate was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Hopkins; his uncle, Josiah Isler; his sister, Lovey Hopkins; his brothers, Thomas Hopkins, Gilford Hopkins, Freddie Hopkins, and Charles Maddox; his sister-in-law, Violet Hopkins; and his brother-in-law, Larry Shelton.

He leaves to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy his loving mother Cordelia Hopkins of Millsboro, DE, his loving wife and honey bunny Sue Hopkins of Junction City, Kansas; Two daughters Secunda Hopkins of Junction City, Kansas, Natika Hopkins (Danyal Dashiell) of Salsbury, Maryland; Father figure to the following: Antionette Davis, Ashli Davis, Aaron Nickens Davis of San Diego, California; Kendra Barnett and Stevani Mahoney of Colorado Springs, Colorado. One God Daughter, Chandra (Demetrius) Bell of Leesville, Louisiana, Five Brothers: William (Joyce) Hopkins of Millsboro, Delaware, Elton (Mae) Hopkins of Georgetown, Delaware, Robert (Margaret)Hopkins of Millsboro, Delaware, and Apostle Ivory (Evelyn)Hopkins of Milton, Delaware. Six Sisters: Delores Justice of Millsboro, Delaware, Mary (Arthur)Hopkins of Millsboro, Delaware, Shirley Shelton of Georgetown, Delaware, Levola Hopkins of Millsboro, Delaware, Regina Taylor of Millsboro, Delaware, and Stephanie (Rozzell) Dukes of Georgetown, Delaware. One Aunt, Brenda Isler of Salisbury, Maryland, One sister-in-law, Wanda Hopkins of Georgetown, Delaware, Spiritual Brother and Best friend, Evangelist Rodney (Elder Veronica) Franklin, Spiritual Son, Deacon Lindsey (Traci) Gandy. Two grandchildren: Cierra Hopkins and Vertis Brown, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and friends who loved him and will miss him dearly.

Visitation will be held on October 27, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at New Church of The Living God, located at 1315 West Ash Street, Junction City, Kansas. A funeral service will follow at the same location from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The graveside service will take place at Kansas Veteran's Cemetery, 5181 Wildcat Creek Rd, Manhattan, Kansas, beginning at 1:00 PM.

Nathaniel Hopkins leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and leadership that will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

Special thank you to Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Funeral home for their patience, attentive care, and support during this difficult time. Words can not express how grateful we are to them all. Their professionalism and compassion is phenomenal.