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Irving Williams Hopkins

Irving Williams Hopkins of Chester, born Aug. 12, 1930, passed away March 10, 2024, at 93. The consummate Renaissance man, Irving was a Good Humor Man, both literally and figuratively (We have photos.), avid cyclist, writer of wit, traveler of Europe, and oft visitor of favored Monhegan Island in Gulf of Maine, and teacher, educator, mentor: singular in life and love — the end of an era.

Born and raised in Branford, along with his beloved late sister Dorothy Hopkins Giesen, Irving was a longtime resident of Mystic Village. After a B.S. in 1960 from Southern Connecticut State College in education, and a M.S. in 1967 from University of Connecticut in marine zoology, Irving dedicated his working life in large part to Mitchell College in New London. He became a member of the Life Sciences faculty in 1966, teaching biology, microbiology, anatomy/physiology, and chemistry along with serving as Chairman of the Awards Committee from 1967, and Chairman of the Life Science Department in 1993 and on.

He “officially” retired in 2017. However, he continued gratis at Mitchell, setting up labs and the like until 2021. By all accounts a fine professor, enjoyed by students and members of faculty alike. His knowledge of biology, chemistry, et al. often arose when speaking to his doctors so as to completely understand various medical situations. In other words, “He drove ‘em nuts” with a plethora of questions. But that was Irving, ever questioning, ever seeking truth. Irving also spent considerable time in Glastonbury, helping his life partner and eventual husband for over 60 years: the late Donald B. Reid. They worked together in both love and marriage and the operation of Butternut Farm Bed and Breakfast. Together, Irving and Donald were a formidable pair, equally comfortable socializing with chickens and goats or hosting wonderfully spirited gourmet dinners for family, friends, and guests. Words cannot encapsulate the memories, happiness, and joy both Irving and Donald together brought to this world.

Irving is survived by nieces, Ann Smith, Beth Esterling and Mary Tucker; plus nephews, Jay Giesen, Jon Giesen and Robert Giesen. All of whom, at one point or another, looked to Irving as a surrogate father. He also leaves behind Chuck Stuart, nephew of Donald, embraced as part of the Hopkins/Giesen family. Irving’s life was a life well spent, well enjoyed, well lived with family, friendship and love.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to The Irving W. Hopkins Endowed Scholarship Fund at Mitchell College.

A celebration of life or Irving’s and Donald’s Life will be held in Glastonbury at a later date.