The death is reported of Father Christopher Hopkins on May 5 at Guy’s Hospital, following a long illness. Fr Hopkins served for 30 years as the parish priest for Peasmarsh and Beckley, ably supported by his wife Janet.
He will be remembered with affection not only by his parishioners but by concert goers attending the annual June concerts held in Peasmarsh Church, given by the Florestan Trio and its successor, the Peasmarsh Chamber Music Festival.
Habitually wearing his black cassock, he enjoyed welcoming visitors to the beautiful church of St Peter and St Paul, and was proud of the ancient minster’s architectural heritage. It is fitting that he is buried in the Peasmarsh churchyard close to where his parents are buried.
A memorial service will be held when circumstances allow, to give thanks for his life and ministry in Peasmarsh and Beckley.
Image Credits: Peasmarsh Chamber Music Festival .
Sad news. Father Christopher was such a lovely character. I had the pleasure of working with Christopher at Peasmarsh School for many years when he was Chair of Governors – his genuine love and care for all the staff and pupils will be remembered and cherished by many, as will his sense of humour. Sending love to Janet and all his family.
Gilly x
I met Father Christopher and Jane as clients of Southern Cross Travel for many years. He was lovely kind, very brave and inspiring man and it was a privilege to know him and Janet.
Same here. We knew Father Christopher and Janet since our marriage in Peasmarsh 21 years ago and they have become close friends of our family. He was incredibly brave fighting his disease, always funny, intelligent, caring and interested in almost everything. A unique personality, who will be missed very much. Thank you for so much Christopher! Xenia, Olaf and Mascha
Father Christopher is an inspiration. He baptised my daughter Fran and I in 2006 at the Church of St. Peter and St.Paul in Peasmarsh. He was very erudite, musical and caring and he was also full of prophetical wisdom. I will think of him and his family as I go to Holy Communion at st. Nicholas’, Dereham this morning. I will remember how he woke up every morning to pray faithfully and serve the parishioners. He will remain a very special member of the clergy, forever in my thoughts.