Juanita Hopkins 1932-2025
Juanita Mildred Hopkins, 93, Topeka, passed away at Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka on Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026.
Juanita was born April 25, 1932, in Kansas, the daughter of Harold and Mildred (Taylor) Lux.
Juanita married John Hopkins and to this union they shared one son, Greg. Juanita and John raised two granddaughters, Kari and Jackie, as they were their own children. Juanita, “Grandma Hoppy,” also helped raise two great-grandchildren, Eli and Bo. Family was her priority and her life.
She retired from the Holton Elementary School where she served many years as a custodian. As well as being a hard worker, she liked to be a prankster and have fun with co-workers and the school kids. Ahead of her time, Juanita worked jobs that many would have considered “man’s work” at the time — from running a gas station and farming to operating a fur business.
She participated in a Denison Bowling League for many years. She loved reminiscing about the days of bowling. She loved her pets (all animals). She always put others first and dedicated her life to serving others.
She moved to Topeka from her farm about 10 years ago, which was a difficult transition for a farm gal. She soon found herself engaged in daily activities with many new friends who have remained in her life and brought her joy. She enjoyed playing Bingo and was known for not calling out “bingo” when she had a winning card because she said “someone else might like to win” — a great example of how she approached life.
Survivors include one son, Greg (Tawnie) of Holton; two brothers Jack (Doris) of Meriden and Dick (Sheryl) of Topeka; a sister, Mary Stapel of Topeka; five grandchildren (Kari, Jackie, Tommy, Missy and Joey); many great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
She was preceded in death by her husband, John; four brothers and a sister.
Juanita was blessed with faithful caregivers who loved and cared for her during this stage of life’s journey. She will be missed by many whose lives she touched.
Rest in peace, Auntie. You were loved and will be missed greatly. You showed us how to love and prioritize family, how to find the best in everyone and how to have a good time throughout it all. Thank you for the unwavering kindness that you brought to our lives every day.
In keeping with her lifelong commitment to service, Juanita chose to donate her body to science as a final generous gift to advance medical education and research. This selfless decision reflects the same compassion and dedication that defined her life.
As per Juanita’s wishes, no services will be held. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.mercerfuneralhomes.com. Memorial contributions can be made to Heart of Jackson Humane Society, sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.
A private farewell will be planned for family and friends at the Denison Cemetery when the ashes are returned, which can be up to one year.
(PAID OBITUARY)
