Michael Hopton

Hopton, Michael E. (GPD, SPD, Capt. Ret.), 47, of Joe Sweet Rd., died October 12, 2009. He was the husband of Deborah M. (Paquette) Hopton. Born in Guam, Philippines, he was a son of Francis and Margaret (Ochs) Hopton of Little Compton.

Michael began his career with the Smithfield Police Department, holding several appointments, retiring as Captain and Detective Commander after 20 years of service in 2004. He was appointed as a full-time police officer in the Glocester Police Department in 2006. He was transferred as a School Resource Officer in 2008. During his career as a police officer, he received many commendations, including a life saving commendation in 2007.

He coached the Mt. St. Charles softball team, the Mt. St. Charles boys cross country team, Warwick PAL wrestling, and NRI Hockey.

Michael was a 1980 graduate of Warwick Veterans Memorial High School. He went on to receive a Bachelor of Science from Roger Williams College, a Masters degree from Salve Regina University, and a Juris Doctor from Roger Williams University. In 2001, he passed the RI Bar Exam and was admitted to the practice of law in the State of RI.

Besides his wife and parents, he leaves two children, Shawn and Ryan, a granddaughter, Lorin, a brother, Frank Hopton of Little Compton, and two sisters, Julie Kenny of North Carolina and Jeanne Hopton of Providence.

His funeral will be held Monday at 8:45 am from the Robbins Funeral Home, 2251 Mineral Spring Ave., North Providence, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in St. Michael Church, Smithfield. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery, Cumberland. Calling hours Sunday 4-8 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Assn., 222 Richmond St., #108, Providence, RI 02903.