Steven Craig Hopkins

Steven Craig Hopkins, U.S. Army veteran, family man, and master craftsman of classic muscle cars, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 13, 2025, in Clarkesville, Georgia, at the age of 77, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born and raised in Hermosa Beach, California, Craig (AKA Cougar or The Coug) served his country with honor in the Vietnam War from March 1968 to March 1969 as a Radio Operator with the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry (Big Red One). For his bravery and sacrifice, he was awarded both the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star.

After returning home, Craig built a life marked by grit, passion, and creativity. He lived in Fallbrook, California, before settling in Clarkesville, Georgia, where he spent the last 29 years running The Installation Center, a successful classic muscle car restoration business. His exceptional work gained national recognition and was featured on Chop Cut Rebuild, Graveyard Carz, and the Hot Rod Magazine Dream Build Drive Series.

Craig is survived by his beloved wife, Denise, his children, Dawn, Jason & wife, Monica; and daughter-in-law, MaryBeth (preceded in death by son, Aaron); his six grandchildren, Joshua, Breanne, Mason, Skyler, Joni, and Chloe; two great-grandchildren, Sayler & Molly; and brother, Lance.

In his younger years, Craig could be found on the beaches of Mexico every winter, chasing the sun with his signature adventurous spirit. Outside of the garage, he loved fishing, camping, motorcycling, and living life on his own terms. Later, some of his greatest joys were the cherished annual trips with his brothers, a tradition filled with laughter, storytelling, and the kind of deep connection only siblings share.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Clarkesville, Georgia, in late May. Details will be shared with family and friends in the coming weeks.

Steven Craig Hopkins will be remembered for his love of the Lord, his humor, his strength, his craftsmanship, his character and the love and advice he gave so fully to those around him. His legacy will echo down open roads, in roaring engines, and in the hearts of all who knew him.

An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandmcentire.com.

McGahee-Griffin & McEntire Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.