Darrell Hiram Hopkins, a true cowboy at heart and talented musician passed away peacefully on November 24, 2024, at the age of 74. Born on July 18, 1950, in Miles City, Montana, Darrell was one of 7 children and, for the most part, was raised in the country on the little Powder River, Darrell’s love for the open road and the wide-open spaces was as vast as the sky itself.
A man of unwavering courage, Darrell served his country honorably in the United States Army. His time in the armed forces instilled in him a strong sense of duty, honor, and country. After his military service, he traded his uniform for a trucker’s cap and spent countless hours on the open road, hauling freight across the nation.
Along with his wife, “Joey” (Cynthia) Hopkins, Darrell founded Let R’ Buck Trucking. Together, they spent countless hours behind the wheel, traversing the nation’s highways and byways. Their rig was more than just a vehicle; it was their home, their office, and their adventure. Darrell’s talents extended far beyond the trucking industry. He was a gifted musician, often performing with his band “Behind the Chutes” at rodeos and local events. His music, like his spirit, was as free and wild as the open range.
In his early years, Darrell was a man of simple pleasures. He enjoyed the quiet moments fishing on the river, the thrill of a good rodeo, and the camaraderie of fellow truckers. He was known for his infectious laughter, his quick wit, and his unwavering loyalty to those he loved.
Beyond his professional life, Darrell was a devoted family man. He is preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Evelyn Hopkins; two daughters, Jolene Lovette and Ciera Zimmerman; brother Robert Hopkins; sister Kaye Powell; and good friend Cliff Grant. They now join him in eternal rest, reunited in the heavenly pastures.
Darrell is survived by his loving wife, Joey Hopkins; brother Hillier Hopkins (Pat); sister Joni Schmitt (Keith), Lynn Weisser (Mark), Lori Hopkins, KD Powell; and numerous nieces and nephews; his children Melissa Hansen, Cassie Copps (Kurt), Christy Mikesell (Kris), Bridgette Steakley (Ray), Given Hopkins, Faith Hopkins, Josh Hopkins (Terri Jo), Amber Frasure, Alisha Frasure, Jessie Hopkins, Jodi Witt, and Robert Barry; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends, as well as the countless people whose lives he touched along his journey.
A Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 10th, 2024, at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Broadus. A Funeral Service celebrating Darrell’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 10th, 2024, at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Broadus. Interment will follow in the family lot of Valley View Cemetery in Broadus. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Homeless Veterans, a cause that was dear to Darrell’s heart.
Service Schedule
Visitation
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Tuesday December 10, 2024
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
101 Wilson St.
Broadus, Montana 59317
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Tuesday December 10, 2024
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
101 Wilson St.
Broadus, Montana 59317
Interment with Full Military Honors
Following the Funeral Service
Tuesday December 10, 2024
Valley View Cemetery
Broadus, Montana 59317
Service Schedule
Visitation
11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Tuesday December 10, 2024
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
101 Wilson St.
Broadus, Montana 59317
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Tuesday December 10, 2024
Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home
101 Wilson St.
Broadus, Montana 59317
Interment with Full Military Honors
Following the Funeral Service
Tuesday December 10, 2024
Valley View Cemetery
Broadus, Montana 59317
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Vanna Lancaster Byrd says
My most sincere condolences. I really liked Darrell. He was a straight shooter and let me know what he thought any time we had a chance to visit.
richard jesse says
Sorry for your loss I liked him. My dad thought a lot of him 😢
Nick and Tammy Treib says
Very sorry to hear about your loss of Darrell. Our condolences to you.
Betty Collins says
Sad to hear of Darrell’s passing. Know all his family and friends are going to miss him. And know that Skin and him are doing a lot of truck talk up in heaven . So glad he isn’t in pain no more.. Rest in peace Darrell.
Denell Guenther says
I still can’t believe it’s true. My uncle was one of those men you could never forget! He always had a story and it usually included a truck or a drink. My fondest memories are playing hearts with him and grandpa.
Bob and Carolyn Traub says
Darrell was always a kind and good hearted as they come. He will be deeply missed but may you rest in peace Darrell. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the family and friends.
Wayne & Serena Wetherelt Jr says
The Family of Darrell: Our Thoughts and prayers are with all of you in the loss of Darrell. He was a good man and a relative of our family. His friendly demeanor and quick wit will always be remembered. A talented musician and a friend to many. May you all find comfort that he touched many lives. Take care and our prayers are with each of you. Wayne Wetherelt Jr and Serena
Ernie and Nancy Stillman says
We were so very saddened by the loss of a dear friend. You will be dearly missed, Darrell. May the angels carry you to your eternal resting place where there will be no more pain or suffering. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Ginger says
I’ll miss this ol’ character…..loving dad, family man, doting husband, giving grandfather, gifted musician, known by all, stranger to none. We grieve for him down here but can definitely rejoice for him as he goes Home, able to freely do everything he loves, see the loved ones that will be greeting him, and looking down at the loved ones he’s leaving behind for awhile. Love and hugs to all!
‘This is where the cowboy rides away……’
Shannon lucas says
I’m just heartbroken for all of you and hope it helps some to know how many people you and Darryl have touched! My greatest sympathies to your entire family
Love Shannon
GABE GEORGE says
I will miss you too Darrell Hopkins, my best grandpa