'Devastated and heartbroken': Widow of retired Raleigh police officer mourns death of husband
WRAL News on Sunday spoke to the widow of a retired Raleigh police officer who was killed in a traffic accident on Friday.
Gwen Hopkins, his wife, described him as selfless, kind and willing to help anyone.
“He got joy out of serving people,” she said. “He got joy out of cooking. He was my chef; he got joy out of us eating and enjoying our food.”
The Raleigh Police Department announced his death and praised him for his dedicated service as a police officer and Marine Corps veteran.
“He loved mentoring and imparting wisdom on people,” Hopkins said. "He could never sit still. He was always doing something, even if it was helping the elderly.”
The Raleigh Police Department released a statement:
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of Sergeant Hopkins, a true pillar of our community. He served with honor and dedication, and his commitment continued beyond his retirement through his work as a youth mentor. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. We will support each other as we grieve and heal together."
Gwen said her family is “devastated and heartbroken,” but her husband lived a full life – and that is helping her and their family get through the loss.
“We don’t even have to ask for anything. That is the impact Ken has made,” she said.
The Hopkins family will hold visitation March 11 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Carlton L. Gray & Cremation, 2810 Kidd St. in Raleigh, and on March 12 from 11 a.m. to noon at World Overcomers Christian Church, 2933 S. Miami Blvd. in Durham.
A memorial service will follow Tuesday at noon at World Overcomers Church.
