Charles (Charlie) E. Hopkins

It is with profound sorrow that we share the passing of Charles "Charlie" E. Hopkins, who passed away at St. Camillus Nursing Home on Saturday June 27th, 2026 at the age of 83. Charlie, who came from humble beginnings, was born in St. Charles, Arkansas on July 13th, 1942. He is predeacesed by his mother Jettie Mae Havener, In-Law's Merle and Ruth Ruland, older brother James Hopkins, and younger sister Margeret Caplener. He is survived by his wife Judith (Ruland) of 59 years of marriage, sons Daniel (Cristina), Michael (Martha), and Robert (Doreen), daughter Lynn, and younger brother Thomas. He also survived by his grandchildren Dakota, Taylor, Milana, and Noah (Daniel), Jessica and Caden (Michael), Tanner and Aiden (Robert), and Rowan and Cullen (Lynn).  

Charlie had a deep appreciation for the natural world and instilled this in all of his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. If he could've spent his retirement on a boat he certainly would have. Charlie was also a Chevy man through and through.  

Charlie dedicated 21 years to the Army and lived a life of service supporting his fellow veterans as Director of Broome County Veterans Affairs until his retirement in 2001 and the various veterans organizations like the VFW and DAV. He gained a great deal from his Army years, but the most impactful was meeting his wife, Judy.  

Charlie battled Parkinson's for many years, but throughout it all he never lost his gift for striking up a conversation and his humor remained intact. We are grateful that he is at rest, and know he was raucously greeted by the many dogs who patiently awaited him over the Rainbow Bridge.

A Funeral Service will be held Friday July 3, 2026, at 11:30, from the Thomas J. Shea Funeral Home Inc. 137 Robinson St. Binghamton.  Burial will follow at Vestal Hills Memorial Park with military honors.  The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 10 until service time at 11:30.

Memorial contribution can be made to any Veterans or animal rescue organizations in my Pop's memory.

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