Hopkins, Mary

Mary Ellen Davis Hopkins, age 61, of Dallas, Texas passed away on March 18, 2012. She was born November 17, 1950 in Marshall, Texas to Jeff Davis and Lillia Rosborough Davis. On August 4, 1973, she married the love of her life, Randy Hopkins, in Crockett, Texas where she spent her childhood. The light of her life, Katy, was born July 9, 1986, in Dallas, Texas where Mary and Randy made their home for 40 years. Mary graduated from Stephen F. Austin University in 1971 with a BA in education. While at SFA, she was immersed in collegiate life as a cheerleader, Chi Omega member, Class Favorite, and freshman representative for Homecoming. She went on to receive her Master's degree in Education and later her PhD in 1989. Mary was passionate and devoted to her profession and to helping children succeed in life. Mary spent over 40 years in education. She was a teacher at Mesquite ISD, was a diagnostician at Garland ISD and was Executive Director of Personnel in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD. Her professional life was filled with recognition for her many accomplishments. She was a long time member of The Texas Association of School Personnel Administrators, and served as President of the TASPA Executive Board, as well as in several other positions. Mary was awarded TASPA Administrator of the Year in 2001 and 2005. In 2007, she received a TASPA Special Recognition Award. 'More than life its own self', Mary adored her Randy and Katy. They were her reason for being and the driving force behind her strength, courage, and determination to be the best she could be at all she endeavored. Her devotion to her family was unparalleled. She was blessed with the joy of knowing her precious Katy became engaged to be married next year to Blake Holmes and was so excited to share the news with everyone. Mary loved life. She was exuberant, full of love for family and friends. She always put others before herself and never met a stranger. Mary was a joy to be around and was the life of every party. She filled the room with her light and laughter and people were drawn to her magnetic personality. She had the ability to find and draw out the best in people. Through her love and graciousness, she made every moment memorable and made our world a brighter place. One of the gifts she gave to her many family and friends was her spectacular annual Christmas Eve party which none of us will ever forget. Mary is survived by her husband of 38 years, Randy Hopkins of Dallas, Texas; daughter, Katy Hopkins, of Dallas; mother, Lillia Rosborough Davis, Dallas; sister Daryl Davis, Dallas; brother, Barry Davis and wife, Silvia, Dallas; brother-in-law, Mike Hopkins, Dallas; sister-in-law, Franette Hopkins Dommer and husband, Mick, Dallas; sister-in-law, Paulette Hopkins Pickel and husband Todd, Dallas; mother-in-law, Vanette Hopkins, Dallas; nieces and nephews: Thomas Mathias, Aubrey Hopkins, Chris Hopkins, David Hopkins, Scarlett Davis, and Truett Davis; as well as many cousins and loving relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Jeff Davis of Crockett, Texas, and father-in-law, Frank Hopkins of Dallas, Texas. Mary would want you to remember her with a smile on your face. A memorial service celebrating Mary's life will be held on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at 1 pm, at Highland Park United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Genesis Women's Shelter, Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD Educational Foundation, Planned Parenthood, and Highland Park United Methodist Church Youth Ministry