Obituary: Frederick J. Hopkins, age 91

Frederick Jacob Hopkins, age 91, of Milford, beloved husband of the late Florence Lily (Banta) Hopkins, entered into peaceful rest on May 1, 2026.

He was born on November 13, 1934, in Bridgeport and was the son of the late William and Anita (Hexamer) Hopkins. Fred, also known as “Hoppy,” was a manager of the Avionics Division at Sikorsky Aircraft for 48 years before his retirement. He had been in the hospital since July of 2023, and throughout that long stay and difficult journey, family remained close to his side, showing up for him every step of the way with love, care, and presence.

Fred was a steady, quiet, and deeply important presence in the lives of those who knew him. He had a way of showing love through consistency and simply being there. His strength carried him and his family through many hard days. Above all, he was a father and a family man. His greatest joy was spending time with his granddaughters, Ella and Livia. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment with them. He was happiest when surrounded by his grandchildren, sharing stories and his infectious laughter. A proud grandfather, he never missed a special milestone or event. He was known for his gentle wisdom and for reminding his grandchildren to “do what was right and to do what was good,” and to always have “pride and respect.”

He never said no to a board game or a chance to play cards—whether it was Goldfish or Poker—and he loved planting flowers in his gardens. Family vacations, scenic drives through Litchfield County, and visits to his favorite restaurant, The Painted Pony in Bethlehem, CT, were among his most treasured memories. Fred also loved attending sporting events, especially the annual Army–Navy football game, Boston College football games, and Quinnipiac Men’s Hockey with the Boys. These outings brought him tremendous joy and were moments he looked forward to sharing with family and friends. Special thanks are extended to the Milford High School Class of 1954 many of his dear friends from those ` continued to gather weekly for breakfast at Goodies in Milford, a tradition he faithfully attended and deeply cherished

Fred spent his younger years growing up in Point Beach, Milford, and worked as a lifeguard during the summers of his teenage years at Fort Trumbull, Gulf Beach, and Silver Sands. He met his high school sweetheart, Florence, and the two later married, building a beautiful life together.

Fred was also deeply involved in his community. He served as Manager of the Junior Major Baseball League for 14 years and was a Past President of the league. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he loved cheering on the New York Yankees, the New York Giants, and UCONN Men’s and Women’s Basketball. He was a longtime member of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Milford, where he served faithfully on the Vestry and as an Usher. Fred was also the co‑founder of Hopkins Studio, a creative endeavor he built alongside his beloved wife, Florence.

Fred is survived by his devoted daughter, Julieanne Hopkins (David Cavallaro) of Milford, and his loving son, Frederick John Hopkins (Patty) of Tennessee; four grandchildren, Ella Lily and Livia Julieanne Hopkins‑Gianotti, Nicole Hathaway (Coleman), and Christopher Hopkins (Kimberly); and his great‑granddaughter, Arya. He is also survived by extended family who loved him deeply and many dear friends.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the medical teams at Milford Hospital, Bridgeport Hospital, Yale Hospital, Griffin Hospital, Gaylord Hospital, MidState Hospital, and Stamford Hospital. Their care, compassion, and dedication meant so much to Fred and to all who loved him.

Friends and family are invited to call on Monday, May 11th, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. in Saint Peter's Episcopal Church, 71 River Street, Milford. A Funeral Mass will begin at 1:00 p.m. in the Church and interment will follow in Kings Highway Cemetery, Milford. THE GREGORY F. DOYLE FUNERAL HOME is in care of arrangements. To leave an online condolence, please visit, gregoryfdoylefuneralhome.com.