Rosa Margaret Hopkins

June 1 st , 1964 - August 24 th , 2026

"And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."
Revelation 21:4

Rose went to Heaven on August 24 th , 2026.

Rose was born to Alexander and Elizabeth Bender on June 1st , 1964 in Torrance, CA. She grew up in Torrance as the youngest of 8 children.

She attended North Torrance High School, where she was highly involved with several extracurriculars. She participated in color guard, cheerleading, and many theatrical performances. In fact, she was inducted as a Gold Star Thespian, something she was very proud of and continued to boast about throughout her lifetime.

She attended El Camino College, where she received her manicurist license. She then worked as a manicurist while attending Biola University. It was here that she attained her Associate’s Degree. She would later attend Brooks College to further pursue education in fashion merchandising. She also later earned a license to become a travel agent, which became her main career. She worked for two travel agencies, and later began working with American Airlines.

In 1985, Rose met Jim, who would become the love of her life. They met at a wedding of mutual friends, and started dating not long after. They were then inseparable, and they married the following year. Throughout their lives together, Rose and Jim exemplified a Christ-centered marriage and sought God’s guidance in all things. Rose was a devoted wife who supported her husband in all of his endeavors, comforted him in times of struggle, and laughed with him in times of joy. On April 20, 2025, they celebrated 39 years of marriage together.

Rose and Jim had two children, Taylor and Danielle. Rose raised them lovingly in a Christ-centered environment. Even when she struggled with many of her own health problems, she made the time and effort to nurture and provide for her children. She supported them in all aspects. Rose was always involved with their school functions, either as a PTO member or as a volunteer to help with every theatrical performance, show choir performance, musical concert, or any other endeavors that her children pursued. She attended as many of her children’s performances and exhibitions as possible, and took great pride in their accomplishments.

Rose loved to travel with her family. Together, they traveled nationally and internationally; places like Hawaii, Grand Cayman, London, Paris, Germany, and many more. Of course, one her favorite places to travel to was York Beach, ME. This place had been visited for generations by Jim’s side of the family, but it quickly became an important place in Rose’s life. Rose and her family visited York Beach as often as possible. They even planned day trips with church members on certain occasions. It became the place that Rose and her family wanted to share with everyone.

As a strong Christian, Rose sought to share the message of Jesus with so many. She was heavily involved with several churches, especially as an event planner. She even moved to New Hampshire with Jim after they were married to be a part of a church plant. Throughout her life, she helped to lead many to the Lord. Rose had a strong and joyful spirit that made people feel comfortable and safe. Many people would share their story with her and seek counsel from her.

Rose also used her amazing event-planning skills to plan parties for her family and friends. She loved to use her skills and creativity for the events she planned, and she worked hard to ensure that she put the same amount of effort and care into planning events for her family and friends. Be it a dual graduation party for her two children, a Christmas party, or a birthday party for her husband or children, she loved making every event one to remember. One of her favorites was Danielle’s Sweet 16 Masquerade Ball. She always went above and beyond, and everyone always spoke about how incredible her events and parties were.

Rose struggled with many different health issues throughout her lifetime. In 2018, through a medical accident, she was paralyzed from the waist down. She was unable to walk for the remainder of her life. But this was not in vain. Rose was a light for Jesus to so many, in spite of her struggles. In the face of pain, suffering, and sadness, she kept a positive attitude, a sense of humor, and an unwavering faith in Christ. She shared her faith with many, and her joyful spirit made an immeasurable impact. So many witnessed this joy, especially medical staff members, who loved to have her as a patient. Though she suffered much, she never lost her faith in Jesus. She was an example to so many, and an incredible witness.

Rose now resides in Heaven, where there is no more pain, suffering, or tears. She can now rest in the presence of God. She is with many loved ones that have passed before her, especially her husband, Jim, and her parents. God surely said to her, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” when she began her perfect life in eternity.

A Celebration of Life is planned for a later date. More details to follow.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to England Family Mortuary, Inc.