News Summary
Russell ‘Russ’ Hopson, a beloved figure in Providence, has passed away after a courageous battle with glioblastoma. Known for his work at Brown University and his loving family life, he is remembered for his kindness and positive spirit. His commitment to supporting students and fostering a joyful environment for his children left a lasting impact on all who knew him. A memorial service will be held to celebrate his life, reflecting on his legacy of love and dedication.
Providence, R.I. – Remembering Russell ‘Russ’ Hopson
Russell “Russ” Hopson passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, at the HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence, Rhode Island, following a courageous battle with glioblastoma, a form of terminal brain cancer. He was 53 years old.
Born in Fauquier County, Virginia, Russ was raised in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains by his parents, John and Joanne Hopson, who pre-deceased him. His early years were filled with cherished memories of growing up on the mountain alongside his brothers, Kliff and Ken, and their close-knit community.
After serving two years in the Army in Germany, Russ developed a fondness for great beer. He later pursued higher education, earning a B.S. in chemistry from George Mason University in Fairfax and a Ph.D. from Northeastern University in Boston. Initially, Russ was unhappy living in the city and was contemplating a move before meeting Kate Bowden in 1999. The couple married in 2001 in a picturesque ceremony in the woods overlooking Squam Lake in New Hampshire.
In 2003, Russ began his dream job as the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility Supervisor at the Brown University Chemistry Department in Providence, Rhode Island. Over his 22 years in this role, he was instrumental in fostering a positive department culture and supported numerous students and researchers. He was known for his hard work and intelligence, with a blend of mischief and tenderness that endeared him to those around him.
Russ was also celebrated for his natural affinity for children, earning the affectionate title of “baby whisperer.” He created a joyful, playful environment for his two children, Lydia Sage and Tate, encouraging elaborate pretend play and outdoor adventures. His love language was defined by “acts of service,” often showing his devotion to his family through home-cooked meals and unwavering support.
Despite his declining health, Russ demonstrated an inspiring outlook on life. His approach to his diagnosis, which he received in the fall of 2023, was characterized by love, humor, music, and gratitude. Friends reflected on the joy and uplifting spirit he brought to gatherings, especially during the isolating times of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Surviving Russ are his wife, Kate Bowden, his children, Lydia Sage and Tate Hopson, and his brothers, Kliff Hopson (Gail) and Ken Hopson (Ashley). He is also survived by his brother-in-law Peter Bowden (Reverend Amy Freedman), his nephew Isaak Hopson (Kinneret) and their daughter, Violet, as well as numerous extended family, friends, music bandmates, and colleagues from Brown University.
The family has expressed heartfelt gratitude for the compassionate care provided by Dr. Sasmit Sarangi, as well as the teams at the Brown University Health Cancer Institute and HopeHealth Hospice. In lieu of flowers, donations in Russ’s name are encouraged to support the Cancer Institute at Rhode Island Hospital.
A memorial service and celebration of Russ’s life is scheduled for October 25, 2025, at 3 p.m. at the First Unitarian Church of Providence, with a casual dress code suggested for attendees. The service will also be live-streamed on the church’s YouTube Channel.
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Additional Resources
- Valley Breeze: Russell ‘Russ’ Hopson
- Wikipedia: Glioblastoma
- Legacy: H. Harrison Obituary
- Google Search: Cancer care in Rhode Island
- Providence Journal: Obituaries
- Google Scholar: Chemistry Education
- Legacy: Anastasios Kounavis Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Dignity Memorial: Leo Smiley Obituary
- Google News: Chemistry at Brown University
- The Olympian: Local News
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
