Donald P. Hopkins Jr., of Wyoming Dies at 61

Donald P. Hopkins Jr., of Wyoming Dies at 61

Donald P. Hopkins Jr., 61, of Wyoming, RI, passed away on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Westerly Hospital. Born on December 1, 1964, in South Kingstown, RI, he was the son of the late Donald P. Hopkins Sr. and Janice L. Mars and beloved grandson of Harold and Laura Mars. Mourned by his former wife and life partner, Wanda Hopkins.

Donald "Dondi" was adored by his family and friends and cherished by the local community. Dondi was a beloved member of the Narragansett Indian Tribe, and he spent his days supporting and caring for many in the Native community. Prior to his work as a Shift Manager in the Engineering Department at Foxwoods Resort and Casino, Dondi worked for Academy Bus Charter and, for many years, as a truck driver at United Rentals as well as a long-haul driver. 

Dondi was also a master carpenter and the owner and operator of Ahkee Builders, where he often accepted payment in the form of a well-cooked meal. He learned the trade by working with his uncle, Kenneth Mars, Harold Mars, and David Mars, and Dondi's handiwork can be found in many homes and buildings up and down the eastern seaboard.

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Dondi graduated from Narragansett High School as a member of the class of 1983. In high school, Dondi excelled at sports, playing basketball and football and holding many state and school track and field records. As a testament to his jovial and loving personality, he has remained close friends with many of his former classmates.

Dondi most enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, being out on the water harvesting its gifts, and just sharing meals and memories with those he loved. He also liked to explore, admiring architecture and the beauty of the countryside while traversing back roads and scenic routes all over the world. He enjoyed finding little-known eateries and experimenting with barbecue. He was also, of course, a Kansas City Chiefs fan, and he enjoyed watching them play. Dondi loved telling stories about how members of his family left indelible marks on the local landscape, and he was exceedingly proud of all his family and their many achievements. He will be remembered most for his infectious, booming laugh and sense of humor.

Donald Hopkins is survived by his children, Mack Scott, Christian Hopkins, Evangeline Hopkins, and Kianna Mello-Hopkins; his siblings, Rodney Hopkins, Lyle Hopkins, Teah Hopkins, and Leah Hopkins-Perry; his grandchildren, Mariana Scott, Maliya Scott, and Mack Scott IV; and his many nieces and nephews.

The celebration of life service for Donald "Dondi" Hopkins will be held at 2 PM on Sunday, July 19th, 2026, at 94 Old Mill Rd, Charlestown, Rhode Island. No parking will be available on the property. Parking is available at the Narragansett Indian Health Center, where a shuttle will take you to and from the service. There will be limited seating, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. The event will be catered, but the family encourages those who wish to bring a dish.

Donald "Dondi" Hopkins was beloved by all, known as a generous, strong, funny, and humble man. His ability to seamlessly enter anyone's life with a big, gentle grin and personable nature will be sorely missed but treasured by all who knew him.