Irma "Jean" Hopkins Riddick, born on November 28, 1939, in Durham, NC, left this earthly life to her heavenly home on May 6, 2025, at the age of eighty-five. She was predeceased by her father, Benjamin Hopkins; mother, Thelma Hopkins and brothers, Isaac Vaughan, Ralph Vaughan, and Benjamin Hopkins Jr.
Irma's life was a testament to her unwavering faith and dedication to her children and the community. A devoted Christian, she was a cherished member of North East Baptist Church, where she participated in the Pearl Manning Sunday School Class. Her passion for health and wellness was evident in her role as a liaison between the church and UNC's Diabetic Research Committee in the early 2000s. She was also a proud member of the Senior Choir and Refined Seniors, always committed to sharing her knowledge and caring for those around her. She was a member of the Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star, Star of Hope Chapter.
Irma's dedication to education and healthcare was reflected in her professional journey. A graduate of Hillside High School class of 1958, she furthered her education graduating from Durham Technical Community College and later in her mid-forties attended North Carolina Central University. She served as a licensed practical nurse at Duke University Medical Center until her retirement in1996. Her post-retirement years were filled with volunteer work at W.G. Pearson Elementary School, which she attended as a youngster.
Irma lived by her favorite song, "May the Work I've Done Speak for Me." She loved advising young people to always keep the star shining brightly in front of them and never lose sight of it – no matter how many stones or mountains they must step over or go around.
Irma leaves precious memories to her beloved three children: Shelia (Douglas Harrington) Hopkins, Tony (Sharon) Riddick, and Wanda (Talvin) Johnson; two grandchildren: Cameron and Daijah; Rianah (special granddaughter). Frederick Douglas McClain(brother) resides in Durham, NC. Devoted cousin Marcella Atwater and host of other relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.
FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS
Viewing: Saturday, May 10, 2025, 4:00 to 5:00 pm at Holloway Memorial Funeral Home, 2502 NC Hwy 55, Durham, NC 27713
Funeral Service: Monday, May 12, 2025 | Visitation Service starts at 10:00 am | Funeral Service at 11:00 am.
Place of Service: North East Baptist Church, 3204 NC Hwy 55, Durham, NC
Interment: Beechwood Cemetery
Family request donations be made to American Diabetes Association in lieu of flowers - Irma Riddick
https://diabetes.org/ways-to-give/memorial-gift
Zoom Information
Meeting ID: 849 5208 8147
Passcode: 445450
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Meeting ID: 849 5208 8147
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Suling Wang sent Rose Romanesque Bouquet for Irma Jean Hopkins Riddick - May 09, 2025
Martha Cress sent Red and White Handled Basket for Irma Jean Hopkins Riddick - May 09, 2025
Erica Mitchell sent Gracious Lavender Basket for Irma Jean Hopkins Riddick - May 08, 2025
Donae A Minor planted 5 trees in memory of Irma Jean Hopkins Riddick . - May 07, 2025
So sorry for your loss. Your mother was a long time original neighbor of the Grant Sisters Community. 🕊️
Sending my condolences, prayers and love to Tony, Sharon, and family. — Ke and Lizhong 5/10
Sending my condolences, prayers and love to the Riddick family. Latricia Glenn
Praying the family
Tony, Sharon and Family, we are sorry to hear of the passing of your Sweet Mother. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Amos and Lisa Squirewell.
Condolences to the entire Riddick family. May God bless you with His peace and comfort during this very sad time. I always admired Irma Jean. She was a good role model for all of us. She was always true to herself, she loved her children, and she also loved animals. I have many good memories of working with her at Duke in the 70s & 80s. Rest in Peace Irma Jean until we meet again.
Martha Cress
Condolences to the entire Riddick family. May God bless you with His peace and comfort during this very sad time. I always admired Irma Jean. She was a good role model for all of us. She was always true to herself, she loved her children, and she also loved animals. I have many good memories of working with her at Duke in the 70s & 80s. Rest in Peace Irma Jean until we meet again.
Martha Cress
Our sincere condolences and prayers to Riddick Family. Shelia and Doug we are here for you and family.
Our Condolences and Prayers to the Riddick family doing your time of bereavement 🙏🏾
Words cannot express our sadness and our hearts are with each of you in your time of sorrow. May the comfort of God help you through this most difficult time and loving memories bring you peace, comfort, and strength today, tomorrow and always. I send my you my sincerest condolences, love, peace, prayers, and comfort to you miss Wanda Ines.
Cameron, Sheila, Tony and Wanda (along with your spouses) , May God bring you comfort and peace during this time.
Mom Irma was Very Special to us. We have so many good memories, and photos of our times together. Hers was a Life Well Lived.
Words cannot express our sadness and our hearts are with each of you in your time of sorrow. May the comfort of God help you through this most difficult time and loving memories bring you peace, comfort, and strength today, tomorrow and always. Floyd, Morgan, Nova and I send our sincerest condolences, love, prayers, and comfort to Wanda (Talvin), Shelia (Doug), Tony (Sharon), and Cameron.
The Smith and Fortune Family.
We are sending heartfelt sympathy and love for the loss of your Mother Irma Jean. She was a strong woman, and she fought a good fight. We are praying for the family to have peace and comfort during this difficult time. Much Love to Shelia (Doug), Tony (Sharon), Wanda (Talvin) and Cameron. The Carmichael Family
We are praying for all of you. I know you will miss her physical presence.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.