Candice Hopkins
August 19, 1946 - May 31, 2026
Candice Hopkins, age 79, of New Castle, DE, left this world on Sunday, May 31, 2026.
Born in Philadelphia, PA on August 19, 1946, she was a daughter of the late George E. and Margo Franklin. She gave her passion, education, and discipline to her works at the Salem and Colonial School Districts, the Girl Scouts of America, and Wilmington University. She gave of herself to stranger and family alike. When not working in education she spent as much time as she could with family, tended to her gardens, and looked to the stars with wonder and enthusiasm.
She had many passions. Her garden was her world for most months out of the year, and she could compress a whole year of that enthusiasm into the Christmas season. Candice spent a life nurturing anyone she met through her home life in Delaware and Arizona. She adored being ‘Grammy’ to her grandchildren, and teaching them as she did her own children. Any day not making Christmas Cookies and being in the garden, is a day she would have chosen to spend at the beach. She made every kind of food imaginable with a grace that made it look simple; right up until you tried to make those recipes yourself. She met the President of the United States in 1995 after being named Delaware State Teacher of the Year. She attended Space Camp in Alabama. She was an organ donor, and gave of herself to three people in need.
In addition to her parents, Candice was preceded in death by her four yorkshire terriers. She is survived by her husband and high school sweetheart, Burt Hopkins Jr.; daughter, Alissa Mazanek (Jason); son, Burt Hopkins III (Sarah Oka); two grandchildren, Jack and Lola Mazanek; sister, Tove D’agostino (Jim); and two nephews, Michael Kunstek and Jimmy D’agostino.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:30 am until 12 pm on Monday, June 8, 2026, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 275 E. Main Street, Middletown, DE, where a memorial service will begin at 12 pm. Interment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, please consider becoming an organ donor or donations may be made in Candice’s name to Literacy Delaware, PO Box 2083, Wilmington, DE 19899 or online by clicking here; or to Gift of Life, 401 N. 3rd St., Philadelphia, PA 19123 or online by clicking here.
Sarah Molaski
It was an honor to have been taught by Mrs. Hopkins. She’s the reason I love reading and anytime I see a frog it reminds me of her. My heart is with you all.
Claudia McDevitt
The McDevitts send their condolences from Arizona. Alissa you and your family are in our thoughts.
Janine Borrelli (Spaeth)
Dear Hopkins Family,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I am flooded with wonderful memories!
Mrs. Hopkins always had a huge smile and an enthusiastic spirit! I’m very thankful to have lived down the street on Scottie Lane. She tutored me in reading the summer after 1st grade and I’m so thankful for her help and encouragement.
One year for Christmas, my brother gave us all fudge that he made, at Mrs. Hopkins house! Such wonderful memories I cherish.
Love,
Janine Borrelli (Spaeth)
Suzanne Bevitz
Candy was my college roommate during our junior and senior years at West Chester. Sadly we lost contact with each other. A surprise phone call brought instant joy into my life. Thanks to her efforts on Facebook, she found four more of our missing friends. When we all got together, it felt like no time had passed. Saying goodbye to her at her funeral will be the last time the ” Golden Ramettes” will be together. Rest in peace my wonderful friend. You will be missed so much. May your memory be a blessing.
Joel
Mrs Hopkins was my first grade teacher! She took a liking to me my mother became her hairdresser for a long time..she was sweet kind and caring definitely my favorite teacher..ever so often id look up and see her after class or if I was in trouble with the principal even after first grade she would always pop in on me one time it was to let me know that I made A B honor roll she saw it before I did and was so proud of me! Rest easy Mrs Hopkins I’ll never forget you!!
Stacy
My sincerest condolences to the Hopkins Family.
Patricia Conti
Alissa and family, life is short not considering your number. Candy’s life was huge and embraced everything and everyone whose path that she crossed. Know that in your grieving she lived a full life and gave her all. She was a good Mama and Grandmama. Love you all and hugs to Bert.
Ericka Giroux
How lucky were we to call her friend and neighbor. Candy was a delight to be with. She had a ready smile and heart of gratitude that was infectious. She made others feel seen. What a tremendous gift she gave us with her friendship.
Ralph & Joyce Hawkins
Ralph and I are deeply sorry for your loss. Candy was a truly special person whose kindness and warmth touched everyone around them. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.