Margaret Hopkins

Margaret Ann Childers Hopkins, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2025, at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts of those whose lives she touched. Born in Alton, Illinois, to Virgia and Marion Childers, Margaret was raised with a strong sense of patriotism and a deep love for learning, values that were rooted in her faith and would become the foundation of her remarkable life.

Margaret's life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to her family, her faith, and her community. She was a dedicated wife to her loving husband, Nephi Gaylon Hopkins, whom she married on August 16, 1963, in the Salt Lake City Temple. Together, they built a family of eight children, who were the center of her universe.

As a mother, Margaret was a pillar of strength and guidance, instilling in her children the values of hard work, kindness, and compassion. She was a devoted teacher, instructing her children in the ways of the gospel and nurturing their spiritual growth. Her love for her children knew no bounds, and she took great joy in watching them grow and thrive.

Margaret's love for children was evident in the many ways she made her home a welcoming and fun place for them. She kept a special little chair in her home, which became a favorite spot for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren to play. She knew how much joy it brought them, and she loved seeing the smiles on their faces as they played and laughed together.

A lifelong learner, Margaret pursued her passion for education, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Brigham Young University. Her love for learning was contagious, and she inspired countless individuals to pursue their own educational goals.

Margaret's brother, Steve, was a great example to her and a source of inspiration throughout her life. She often spoke fondly of him and drew strength from his courage and sacrifice. Steve was a graduate of West Point and served his country with honor in Vietnam, where he made the ultimate sacrifice. Margaret's love and admiration for Steve only deepened her own sense of patriotism and commitment to her family and community. In tribute to her brother Steve, she made it a daily ritual to post and retire the American flag, a poignant reminder of her love and respect for his service and sacrifice.

Margaret's service to her community and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was exemplary. Throughout her life, Margaret served with distinction in various capacities within the Church, including numerous Ward and Stake callings. Together, with her husband, she spent eight years in Central and South America. First as Mission Leaders of the Venezuela Valencia Mission then as Mission Leaders of the Guatemala MTC and finally as Temple Matron in the Montevideo Uruguay Temple. These many years away from her children and grandchildren were difficult, but she was willing to sacrifice her wishes and desires to be in the service of her Lord and Savior. She also spent a year serving in the Washington DC Temple as well as many years as an ordinance worker in Logan, St. George and Mt. Timpanogos Temples.

Perhaps one of the most remarkable stories of Margaret's life is that of her heroism as a young girl. At the tender age of 9, Margaret demonstrated a level of courage and faith that would stay with her throughout her life. While playing with friends, Margaret felt a prompting from the Lord to go to the neighbor's pool, where she discovered her younger brother Jim struggling to stay afloat. Without hesitation, Margaret jumped into the water, grabbed her brother, and pulled him to safety. This act of bravery not only saved her brother's life but also demonstrated her willingness to listen to and follow the promptings of the Lord.

Throughout her life, Margaret's faith and trust in the Lord guided her in countless ways. She was a prolific reader and she maintained a daily journal for most of her life. Her love for the country of Israel and the Jewish people was deep and abiding, and she spent many years guiding tours to the Holy Land, sharing her knowledge and passion with others.

Margaret's legacy extends far beyond her remarkable life. She leaves behind a family of 88 loved ones, who will forever cherish the memories of her love, guidance, and devotion. She considers her posterity to be her greatest legacy, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her brother Stephen Andrew Childers, her father Marion Andrew Childers, and her mother Virgia Hinrichs Childers.

Survived by her loving husband, Nephi Gaylon Hopkins, her brother James (Gloria) Childers, and her eight children: Andrew (Jennifer) Hopkins, GayLynn (Shane) Clark, Mark (Stephanie) Hopkins, Robert (Kari) Hopkins, Lisa (Luke) Brennan, Michael (Lisa) Hopkins, Krista (Brian) Pendleton, and Kara (Scott) Mortensen.

Margaret Ann is also survived by 26 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren, who will deeply miss her love, guidance, and devotion.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints church, located at 127 E 3200 N Lehi, UT.

A second viewing will be held on Monday, March 24, 2025, from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 10:30 a.m., also at the same location.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, March 24, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. in the Mendon, Utah cemetery. All are welcome to attend and share in the memories of this extraordinary woman. https://maps.app.goo.gl/2v6CQ93AXh3YwniP7