James "Lee" Ronald Hopkins passed away on May 7, 2020 in Bakersfield, Ca. He was born on December 19, 1947 in Stockton, Ca to Velma Ceasar and James Howard. He would later be adopted by Agnus and Walter Hopkins. James Hopkins attended Edison High School in Stockton, Ca. During high school James would form his first band King James and the Counts. He was known as the drummer to be had. He played for bands such as The Gap Band, The Malibus, The Blue Mirrors and countless others. James meet Hattie McClain in 2000 in Bakersfield, Ca. and they would be inseparable from there on. They were happily married for 12 years. While there were no children from this marriage, he leaves behind Mary Price, Marcus Williams, and Melvin White. He also leaves behind a host grandchildren and great-grandchildren, with his heart belonging to Tamajha White, Sydney Wright, Briyaun Guyton, Shaquille and Shakyra Holmes. James is survived by his spouse Hattie McClain-Hopkins of Bakersfield, CA. His daughters Debra Hawkins (Victor) of Buckeye, AZ. and Wyconda Hopkins (Stanley) of Las Vegas, NV. He also survived by his six sons Marcus Hopkins (Tasha), Bryant Hopkins (DeeDee) both of Stockton, CA. Damon Hopkins of San Diego, CA, Michael Hopkins, Jeremy Hopkins (Melissa) both from Olympia, WA. and Javon Hopkins of Seattle, WA. He is also survived by a multitude of nieces and nephews. James was preceded in death by his parents Velma Ceasar, James Howard, Agnus, and Walter Hopkins. He sisters Thelma Townsell, Frankie Simms, and Jessie Stamps. His brothers, Richard Lockhart, James Stamps, Mac, and Ray Robinson. Two children James Hopkins Jr. and Latisha Demarc-Hopkins. Also one great grandchild Jamari Moore. The Hopkins family would like to give a special recognition to James' best friend Marvin and to those who he touched. Also a special thanks to those who treated him at the Cancer Center and Hoffman Hospice.
Tribute Video