Longtime Texas Businessman Joe Donald Hopkins Dies at 86

The entrepreneur and industrial arts teacher is remembered for his love of country music and antique cars.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 6:58am

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Joe Donald Hopkins, a longtime Texas businessman and industrial arts teacher, passed away peacefully on March 1 at his home in Brady, Texas at the age of 86. Hopkins was known for his entrepreneurial spirit, founding the successful Midland Concrete company, as well as his passion for country music, antique cars, and woodworking. He is survived by his wife Patricia, son David, grandchildren, and other family members.

Why it matters

Hopkins' life story highlights the enduring entrepreneurial spirit and community values that have defined many small businesses in Texas over the decades. Despite facing challenges like Alzheimer's disease later in life, he built a lasting legacy through his concrete company and involvement in local organizations.

The details

After graduating from East Texas State University, Hopkins taught industrial arts at Odessa High School for nearly a decade. In 1974, he took a role as the Director of Maintenance and Grounds at the new Midland College campus. This led him to start his own concrete company, Midland Concrete, in 1981 to solve his own construction needs, which grew into a successful family business. Hopkins was also known for his artistic talents in woodworking, painting, and bronze casting, as well as his love of antique cars and country music.

  • Joe Donald Hopkins was born on September 2, 1939 in Mineral Wells, Texas.
  • He graduated from East Texas State University in the early 1960s.
  • Hopkins married Patricia Austin in 1961.
  • The Hopkins family moved to Midland, Texas in 1974.
  • Hopkins founded Midland Concrete in May 1981.

The players

Joe Donald Hopkins

An 86-year-old Texas businessman, industrial arts teacher, and entrepreneur who founded Midland Concrete.

Patricia Hopkins

Joe Donald Hopkins' wife of over 60 years.

David Hopkins

Joe Donald Hopkins' son, who worked alongside him at Midland Concrete over the years.

Midland Concrete

The successful ready-mix concrete company founded by Joe Donald Hopkins in 1981.

Odessa High School

The school where Joe Donald Hopkins taught industrial arts for nearly a decade.

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What they’re saying

“The special care you gave Joe always went above and beyond and we will miss all of you!”

— Patricia Hopkins, Joe Donald Hopkins' wife

“The HOT Country Music Association along with Charla and Tracy Pitcox had a special place in Joe's heart! Thank you for helping him be able to join in the activities that were so dear to him!”

— Patricia Hopkins, Joe Donald Hopkins' wife

What’s next

A Celebration of Life is planned for September 12 in Brady, Texas to honor Joe Donald Hopkins.

The takeaway

Joe Donald Hopkins' life embodied the entrepreneurial spirit, community values, and passion for the arts that have defined many small businesses and families in Texas over the decades. Despite facing health challenges later in life, he left a lasting legacy through his concrete company, artistic pursuits, and involvement in local organizations.