Harry L Hopkins, a cherished man known for his kind, loving, caring, and cantankerous personality, left us on September 24, 2024. Born on August 11, 1935, Harry lived a life filled with tremendous passion, discipline and service towards others. As a lawyer, he was the champion of the people, even arguing a case in front of the United States Supreme Court. As a father and friend, he was a steady hand that steered the ship. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Martha Markline Hopkins, daughter Dr. Caroline Baker, son Peter Hopkins (Monica), grandsons Caleb Baker (Taylor), James and Taylor Hopkins, and sisters Eleanor Scites, Sue Berry, and Kay Iffrig (Larry), whose lives were greatly enriched by Harry’s presence. His departure leaves an unfillable void in their lives, yet they find comfort in the memories they shared.
Harry was born in a barn in Piggott Arkansas, one of 12 children, and according to him, had his own milk cow. He was a graduate of University of Southern Mississippi and Tulane School of Law, and practiced law for sixty years, mostly in Birmingham, Alabama. He also taught for many years at University of Alabama Law School. If asked, Harry would likely say he was a farmer, but he was so much more. He was a shining example of how to think of others, a value that was central to his character. Over the years, he taught many how to be a lawyer and person of character.
In the 1970’s Harry became a labor law partner at Lange, Simpson, Robinson, and Somerville (Birmingham) where he would teach and mentor countless young lawyers in labor and employment law. Harry was especially proud of helping the Birmingham Board of Education achieve desegregation without violence or excessive rancor. Concurrently, his deep knowledge and passion for the law led the University of Alabama School of Law to draw on his talents.
In September 1997 Harry founded the Birmingham office of the internationally recognized labor and employment law boutique firm Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak, and Stewart. Harry was thrown an elaborate retirement party when he reached the mandatory retirement age of 70, and he was at the office bright and early the following day continuing to practice the profession he loved.
Harry L Hopkins, a gentleman farmer and lawyer, and beacon of empathy and justice, will forever reside in our hearts and will continue to inspire and guide us. As we grapple with the loss of his physical presence, we find solace in knowing that his spirit lives on in the many people he touched.
Harry appreciated the importance of education, and he founded the Hal R. Hopkins Scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi in honor of his brother who died too soon. If desired, you may donate by calling 601 266 4217,
