Celebrating the Life of Violet Louise Briddell Hopkins

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son,

that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

— John 3:16

A Time to Live — A Time for Eternal Life

Mrs. Violet Louise Briddell Hopkins was born on June 18, 1945, to the late Clifton C. Briddell and Wilhemenia D. Briddell. She was the fourth of eight children and the only daughter among seven brothers.

On a beautiful Wednesday afternoon, July 16, 2025, at 12:55 PM, the Lord peacefully called Violet home, granting her eternal rest from her earthly journey.

A Time to Learn — A Time to Grow

Violet was baptized and spiritually nurtured at St. Paul United Methodist Church in Berlin, Maryland. At the age of nine, she went to live with her aunt and uncle, Sarah and Carlton Smack, who lovingly continued her upbringing and blessed her with six additional siblings.

Berlin, Violet's hometown, was a place filled with family, friends, and community. Everyone knew each other, and Violet often surrounded herself with cousins and friends, making memories filled with laughter, long talks, and shared meals. For her, there was no place like Berlin—especially Briddelltown.

Violet graduated from Worcester High School in Newark, Maryland, in 1964. She was known for her infectious laugh and warm spirit. On May 7, 1970, she welcomed her beloved son, the Rev. Marcus D. Briddell. In 1972, Violet and Marcus moved to Timmons Mobile Home Park (later known as Evan's) in Dagsboro, Delaware.

A Time to Honor God

After being invited to Dickerson Chapel AME Church, Violet accepted Christ and joined under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. R. Augustus Jackson, Sr. She became actively involved in the life of the church, serving faithfully as a member of the Senior Usher Board, the Chancel Choir, the Edna Burton Women's Missionary Society, and the Gospel Choir. She also attended Bible Study and Church School, which she greatly enjoyed.

Following the passing of her beloved husband, Violet moved with her son Marcus to Middletown, Delaware, where she joined Trinity AME Church as an affiliate member. There, she was warmly welcomed and joined several ministries, including the Voices of New Destiny, the Trinity Mass Choir, and the Annie White Women's Missionary Society. She cherished the friendships she formed at Trinity and maintained those bonds even after returning to Dickerson Chapel.

In March 2023, when her son was assigned to Dickerson Chapel, Violet joyfully returned to her spiritual home and remained active in the church even during her recent illness. On her final Sunday at church—Father's Day—she ushered with pride, as she always loved ushering and leading the choirs around the sanctuary with her signature style.

A Time for Family and Friends

Violet worked various jobs throughout Delaware. She cared for her ailing father until his passing and later nursed her Aunt Sarah through a brief illness. She continued working in child and elder care and often spent summers helping her aunt clean hotels in Ocean City, Maryland. Violet had a special love for children, and they loved her in return.

The residents of Timmons Mobile Home Park were like extended family to Violet. She built lasting friendships and was part of a true village—where everyone looked out for each other and made sure no one went without. This spirit of generosity remained with Violet throughout her life. She and her future husband, Gifford, always shared whatever they had with those in need.

In the early 1980s, Violet met the love of her life, Mr. Gifford J. Hopkins. They married on April 14, 1984. Through this union, she gained three beloved stepchildren: the late Delema Shelton, Rodney Hopkins, and Perry Hopkins. Violet also cherished her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

She embraced the Hopkins family as her own and shared a deep bond with her in-laws, who loved her as dearly as her biological family. Violet also had numerous godchildren and many adopted grandchildren who held a special place in her heart.

Because Gifford was a member of St. John 2nd Baptist Church in Millsboro, Delaware, the couple actively supported both churches, especially during Women's and Men's Day celebrations.

Over the decades, Violet became known to many as a sister, cousin, aunt, godmother, and grandmother. Her relationships were deep, meaningful, and full of love.

A Life Well-Lived

Violet loved spending time with family and friends. She delighted in dancing, laughing, and long conversations. She especially enjoyed good food—crabs and chicken and dumplings were among her favorites.

Though she never had a driver's license, Violet had no trouble getting around. She lived with intention, moved with grace, and made a lasting impression on all who knew her. To know Violet was truly to love her. She carried no enemies in her heart and showed love to everyone she met.

Above all, Violet loved the Lord and lived her faith every day—with joy, devotion, and grace.