Bernard Demilo Hopkins

Hopkins, Bernard Demilo (Age 60) of Heathsville, Virginia

With profound love and gratitude for a well lived life, we celebrate the life of Bernard Hopkins, affectionately known as "Mr. B," "Bernie," and "Nard," who peacefully departed this life on May 22, 2026, in Mechanicsville, Maryland. Born on July 23, 1965, in Charlottesville, Virginia, Bernard touched countless lives through his kindness, wisdom, generosity, and unwavering love for family and friends.

Bernard was born to the late William Edward Hopkins and Mable B. Hopkins, who instilled in him the values of hard work, faith, perseverance, and devotion to family. He was preceded in death by his beloved brothers, Quinton Montez Hopkins and William Edward Hopkins, Jr.

A proud graduate of Dunbar High School, Class of 1985, Bernard continued his education at Virginia State University, where he majored in Biology. Driven by a desire to serve his country, he later enlisted in the United States Army, where he distinguished himself through dedication and discipline. During his military service, Bernard earned recognition for his exceptional marksmanship and was known as a skilled sharpshooter.

Following his military service, Bernard pursued his passion for cooking and hospitality. He attended Stratford University, earning an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts. This achievement launched a successful career as a chef, allowing him to share his gift for cooking with countless people throughout his life.

Bernard married the love of his life, Rossanna V. Hopkins, on May 8, 1998. Their friendship began during their years at Dunbar High School and blossomed into a loving marriage built on faith, trust, partnership, and devotion.

Throughout his career, Bernard worked as a chef with Amtrak Auto Train and brought excellence, creativity, and passion to every kitchen he entered. Beyond his culinary accomplishments, he was also a successful real estate investor and entrepreneur. Among his proudest achievements were building his family home and creating opportunities and stability for those he loved.

Cooking was more than a profession for Bernard—it was his love language. He found joy in preparing meals that brought people together. Family gatherings were filled with his famous dishes, laughter, music, and unforgettable memories. Whether serving ribs, chicken, chicken masala, or another favorite recipe, Bernard had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome and cared for.

Those who knew Bernard will remember him as funny, smart, kind, loving, and patient. He generously shared life lessons and wisdom, offering guidance through both his words and actions. His deep faith and relationship with God served as the foundation of his life and inspired him to live with integrity, compassion, and humility.

Bernard leaves to cherish his memory devoted wife, Rossanna V. Hopkins; his loving children, Rodney P. Quarles (Tasha) and Rashad E. Quarles (LaTia); and his cherished grandchildren, Rashad E. Quarles, Jr., Kyler E. Quarles, and Rahmeek E. Quarles.

He is also lovingly remembered by his parents-in-law, George and Jerettia Burrell; his beloved nephew, Tyshawn Hopkins; his close aunt, Jane Harris; and a host of cousins, relatives, friends, neighbors, colleagues, and all whose lives were enriched by his presence.

In his free time, Bernard enjoyed traveling, landscaping, investing, spending time with family and friends, and creating memorable experiences around food. He believed in loving one another, showing kindness and patience, and placing God at the center of life. These values are the enduring lessons he leaves for future generations.

Although Bernard's earthly journey has ended, his legacy of faith, love, laughter, generosity, and service lives on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered not only for the meals he prepared but also for the lives he nourished, the wisdom he shared, and the love he gave so freely.

His life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, and his love a gift that will remain with us forever.

"To love, be kind, be patient with one another, and put God first."

Forever Loved. Forever Missed. Forever Remembered. ❤️

His viewing will be held on Saturday, June 13th from 2:00pm until time of service 3:00pm, Chapel of Thornton Funeral Home, P.A., 3439 Livingston Road, Indian Head, Maryland 20640. Interment, Thursday, July 9th, Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham.

On Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 3:00 pm please click the link below to view service online.

When viewing the services, please be sure that the volume located in the right lower corner (where it says "live") on the viewing screen is turned up (the bars should be blue).

The streaming will begin after the final family viewing has ended. Therefore, there may be a delay before the service appears on the screen. Thank you.

https://www.thorntonfuneralhomepa.com/livestream