Paul D. Hopkins

Paul D. Hopkins, 89, of Blue Bell, PA, formerly of Trafford, passed away on August 11, 2025. He was the loving husband of Joan (Skalicky) Hopkins for over 58 years. Paul was born in Trafford, PA, on February 7, 1936, to the late Donald and Ethel (Wampler) Hopkins. Following high school, Paul served his country with the U.S. Navy. Afterward, Paul played baseball for Clarion University and later attained his Master’s degree in Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. As a secondary education teacher, he taught history in Delaware and western Pennsylvania, eventually becoming a principal in the Armstrong School District (PA) until his retirement in 1996. Additionally, he was an avid football fan and successful football coach at the high school level. His other passions included woodworking, golf, and socializing with friends and family. After retirement, he lived over 20 years in Aiken, SC, a place he and his wife loved very dearly. During this time, he published a loose autobiography of his life entitled Bull Session. Along with his wife, he is survived by his sons: Maxwell Hopkins (Dawn), Marc Hopkins (Erica); 5 grandchildren: Will, Christian, Andrew, Philip, and Amelia; his sister Sherrill West. He was predeceased by his brother Barry Hopkins. A Memorial Visitation with his family and Celebration of Paul’s life will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025 from 12:30 PM to 3PM in the John M. Dobrinick Funeral Home Inc., 702 7th Street (State Rt. 130) Trafford, 412-372-3111. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Paul to The Wounded Warrior Project.

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