James Hopkins

James Hopkins, 89, of Jeromesville, Ohio passed away from cardiac arrest at a luncheon at Hillsdale High School on February 19, 2025. Jim was born on August 2, 1935 at the family farm in Jeromesville, the second of five children to Ernest J. and Mary C. Hopkins. 

Jim graduated from Jeromesville High School in 1953 and later earned a degree in Animal Science from The Ohio State University, where he became a lifelong Buckeyes fan. Jim served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, and later worked for Firestone Natural Rubber Company in Liberia, where he traveled extensively throughout Africa. In 1972, Jim bought and took over the family farm from his parents. He operated the farm as a dairy farm, until later years transitioning it to a white-tailed deer farm. 

Jim is survived by brother John (Julie) Hopkins of Guemes Island, WA; sister-in-law Lillian Hopkins of Hamilton, OH, and brother-in-law Jim Billick of Henderson, NV; and ten nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind long-term employee and chosen family Gina Hawkins, her four children and ten grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Mary Hopkins; partner Jan Kelly; and siblings: Stephen (Colleen) Hopkins, Margaret Billick, and Willard Hopkins. 

Calling hours will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday March 6th at the Fickes Funeral Home in Jeromesville. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mary & Ernest Hopkins Memorial Scholarship fund at the Ashland County Community Foundation.

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