Esther Evans Hopkins (Doby)

In the words of the Apostle Paul, “For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 2:21

Esther Lee Evans Hopkins (Doby) completed her earthly race early morning October 10, 2023 at the Randolph Hospice House. Born April 26, 1926 in Darlington, SC to Thomas Oliner Evans, Sr. and Edna Marie Smith Evans, she lived her ninety-seven plus years to the fullest.  Growing up in a family that eventually numbered eleven siblings, she would say her life was happy, rewarding, and, at times, adventurous or even challenging.  Throughout her life, she followed the object of her hope and love, Jesus Christ.

Esther wed William (Bill) R. Hopkins on October 4, 1947, and became mother to four daughters who survive her.  Being a pastor’s wife, mother, and, eventually, a teacher, became the joys of her life.  After thirty-two years as an educator, she settled into retirement enjoying gardening, bird-watching, and traveling.  At the age of ninety-five, she sang a solo acapella at a special church event, proving one doesn’t age out of service to God.

Bill died in January of 1996, and she found another companion Robert Doby who also predeceased her.  They enjoyed many happy adventures and a deep, satisfying companionship until his death in 2007.

Surviving to cherish her wonderful memories and a Christian example are daughters Patricia A. Mikowski of Florence, SC, Kaye H. Poole (Melvin) of Oakboro, NC, Doreen H. Reynolds (Don) of Reidsville, NC, and Terri H. Prestwood (Mike) of Badin, NC.  Eight of nine grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren, and three great-great grandchildren also survive.  Numbers of nieces, nephews, and friends also will remember Esther with love.

Pugh Funeral Home in Asheboro is handling arrangements as follows:  The family will receive friends on Saturday, October 14, 2023 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue in Asheboro.  A gathering of family and friends will be held on Sunday, October 15, 2023 from 2:00-2:30 pm with the funeral service following at 3:00 pm at the Pugh Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Rick Wilkie  and Rev. Joe Arthur officiating.  Entombment will be held on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at 2:30 pm at Randolph Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the following would be appreciated: 
Asheboro Pentecostal Holiness Church, 450 Summit Ave., Asheboro, NC 27203
Holmes College of the Bible, 4901 Old Buncombe Rd., Greenville, SC 29617
the Randolph Hospice House, 446 Vision Dr., Asheboro, NC 27203