Selected Death notices from the Lafayette Advertiser 1873-1905
Submitter: Audrey Hopper (RHopper454 @ aol.com)
Source: Lafayette Advertiser
Date: May 26, 2005


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From the Lafayette Advertiser
August 19, 1903 pg. 1 col 4

Death of Mrs. Thos. B. Hopkins	
     It is our sorrowful duty this week to chronicle the death of Mrs. Thos. B. 
Hopkins, which sad event took place last Sunday morning at twenty minutes to 
seven.  She had been sick for a long time, and though her death was not 
unexpected, yet when the end came it was a great shock to the community.  
Mrs. Hopkins, whose maiden name was Miss Susan Kennedy, was born in 
Claiborne parish, but came to Lafayette with her parents while still a 
child.  She was married to Dr. Hopkins about 35 years ago, and with a 
devoted husband and loving children, enjoyed a happy married life.  She 
was a consistent member of the Methodist church, and throughout her life 
exemplified the religion in which she had an abiding and trusting faith.
She was indeed a true Christian, and daily and hourly practiced the precepts 
of the Master.  Her heart was filled with charity for the shortcomings of 
others, and those whose privilege it was to know her well, felt the sweet 
influence of her beautiful soul, which shed love, kindness and sweetness 
upon all whose dear pleasure it was to be near her.  She was so unselfish, 
always ready and so pleasantly willing to sacrifice herself to others.  She 
never seemed happier than when doing some gentle kindness for others or 
ministering in little unobtrusive ways to their pleasure or comfort.  Her 
home life was indeed lovely.  Each member was devoted to mother, and she 
was the gentlest and sweetest of mother, and while it was God’s will that 
he should take her to himself, only He can give comfort and solace to 
these bereaved ones, for He alone can know how her dear presence and 
sweet ministrations will be missed from the home.  During her long 
illness she was a great sufferer, but bore her sufferings, uncomplainingly 
and with highest Christian fortitude, and even while suffering was 
forgetful of self and so thoughtful of others.  She had such a happy 
cheerful disposition, carrying sunshine wherever she went, and while 
sick and in pain bore up so bravely and cheerfully, that she might 
spare her family grief for herself.
     Her life has been a beautiful example, and it may be truly said that 
the world is the better for her having lived in it.
     Funeral services were held at the Methodist church where it was ever 
one of her highest pleasures to attend and worship God.  Rev. A. C. Smith, 
her pastor, preached the funeral sermon, and in a simple and feeling manner 
paid tribute to her many virtues and lovely character.  During the services 
the congregation sang “Nearer My God to Thee” and the beautiful hymn, “Asleep 
in Jesus.”  At the close of the services the remains were borne to the 
Protestant cemetery and there laid to rest.
     The high esteem in which Mrs. Hopkins was help was shown by the 
very large number of friends who attended the funeral which was the 
largest which has ever taken place here.  As the funeral cortege passed 
through town, all the stores were closed as a token of respect and esteem.