Video: Life of American Hero Celebrated On Veterans Day

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BALDWYN, Miss. (WCBI) — Friends and family gathered to remember the life of a true American hero on this Veterans Day.

Billie Hopkins was known to many in our area as a family man, business owner and someone who cared for his community.

As the “stars and stripes” flew outside Waters Funeral Home, inside, the life of Billie Hopkins was being celebrated.

Hopkins served with the 79th Infantry Division in World War Two, earning three Purple Hearts. He was part of the Normandy Invasion in 1944.

“He was covered up for dead on July 4,th in Saint Loue France, knocked out for about four hours, then they happened to see the cover was moving, they went back, retrieved him and brought him home,” said Emily Hopkins.

After returning from the war, he married Betty Isbell, joined the U.S. Air Force, but later came back to Baldwyn where he opened Hopkins Big Star. He also opened Arnold’s Restaurant. And loved the great outdoors.

“We as a family enjoyed camping, boating, he taught many people how to water ski, we just enjoyed life and being outdoors and going to the lake, and just adventure,” Hopkins said.

Emily Hopkins says it is fitting that her Dad’s funeral, with full military honors, took place on Veterans Day.

“He is joining many other veterans that he lost in service, he didn’t talk about it for a long time, but it’s such an honor to have so many people here,” she said.

Even the youngest family members know the important role played by their great grandfather, and so many others.

“They gave us a free country,”said Mason Morris, great grandson of Hopkins.

“Thank You, Happy Veterans Day,” said Kane Morris, great grandson of Hopkins.

Billie Hopkins was a guest on the Tennessee Valley Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. in August of 2009.

His wife passed away earlier this year. They were married for 67 years.