of Altus, OK

May 24, 1939 - June 16, 2025

Gailand Bruce Hopkins, a devoted resident of Altus, Oklahoma passed away peacefully in Oklahoma City on June 16, 2025. He was 86. Born in Maryville, Missouri to Earl Rudolph Hopkins and Geneva Bartlett Hopkins, Gailand was raised and educated in his hometown. In 1960, he proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he trained as an engineer, specializing in plumbing. His distinguished 20-year military career took him around the globe, with assignments in Lincoln, Nebraska; Berlin, Germany; Mount Hood Radar Site, Oregon; Bedford, Virginia; Osan, Korea; Altus, Oklahoma and finally, McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey.

It was during his service in Lincoln that fate intervened: Gailand saw a photograph of his friend Jerry's cousin, Gwynda Ann McDonald and was instantly smitten. After writing her letters, he drove to Arkansas to meet her just once-their next meeting was at the altar. The two were married in Rupert, Arkansas, beginning a lifelong love story.

Retiring in 1981 as a Master Sergeant, Gailand returned to Altus with his family. He briefly worked as a civilian contractor at Altus Air Force Base before finding his calling at AutoZone. There, his passion for helping others, sharing stories and talking cars, made him a beloved fixture in the community.

Gailand was a faithful member of Southside Baptist Church and cherished fellowship with the McDonald's coffee group, where laughter and camaraderie flowed as freely as the coffee. A dedicated NASCAR enthusiast and Dallas Cowboys superfan, he rarely missed a race or game. He also loved evenings at the Altus racetrack.

Those who knew Gailand will remember his booming humor, legendary storytelling and fierce loyalty. He welcomed friends like family, loved with his whole heart and stood unwavering for those he cherished. His devotion to Gwynda was unparalleled; he grieved her deeply for 13 years after her passing. His children and grandchildren were his greatest pride and joy.

He was received at the gates by his beautiful wife, Gwynda Hopkins; parents, Earl and Geneva Hopkins; brothers, Larry Hopkins and Richard Hopkins and sisters, Sarah Wiley and Margaret Vannaken.

Gailand is survived by his loving children, Steve and Julie Hopkins, Annetta and Richard Lander; brother, Jim Hopkins; sisters, Doris Songer, Janice Saitta; grandchildren, Sidney Champagne, Michael Hopkins and wife, Cassey, Madison Arguello and husband, Erick, Ashlie Hopkins; great grandchildren, Jackelin Champange, Jace Southerland, Jaqob Champange, Aaron Hopkins, Eden Hopkins, Samuel Williams, Emery Arguello and Renley Arguello; sister-in-law, Donna and Woody Tester and numerous nieces, nephews and a community of friends who will forever cherish his legacy of love, service and unforgettable laughter.


Visitation will be 2:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. Sunday, June 22, 2025 at Roller - McNutt Funeral Home in Clinton, Arkansas. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 23, 2025 at the Pleasant Grove Cemetery Rock Church Building, HWY 16 W, Clinton, Arkansas with interment following at Pleasant Grove Cemetery.

To express condolences online please visit www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/clinton

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-McNutt Funeral Home
Highway 65 South
Clinton, AR  72031
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com