THE Southampton supermum who dedicated her life to fostering hundreds of babies and children has died aged 83.

And the family of Tina Hopkins would like to invite them all to join them to celebrate her incredible life at her funeral service next week. 

Tina and husband John, from Regents Park, are thought to have fostered, cared for and provided emergency cover for at least 400 babies and children in need over a period of more than 40 years.

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Their three bedroom semi was always a hive of activity with grown up ex-foster children constant visitors.

As reported in the Daily Echo back in 2001, Tina had by then reached normal retirement age having cared for 250 children, but refused to stop while her health allowed and families still needed her.

She explained at the time: "I just love children, they're better than grown ups! People wonder how I cope with all these children to look after, but I think the more children you have the easier it is. Once you start caring for children, it's hard to stop."

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Tina and John's amazing work with children was recognised by the BBC South Community Champions event for unsung heroes with the couple receiving TV presenter Esther Rantzen’s special Judge’s Award for those who make a difference in their community. 

Daily Echo: Southampton supermum Tina Hopkins

Daughter Michelle Doyle said Tina's family would love to extend an invitation to join them at her funeral, on Thursday May 4, to all the many local families she has helped and supported over the years.

Tina was mum to Michelle, Chris, Nick, Teresa and Stephen. Her grandchildren are Monny, Malee, David, Linda, Christopher, Rachael, Michael, Ian, Jason, Nicola and Oliver and she has 13 great grandchildren with another one on the way.

Tina, short for Christina, was known as Mum, Grandmum or Te-Te to so many.

Her funeral service will take place at Wessex Vale Crematorium in West End at 11.30am. 

There will be family flowers only, but donations to charity Macmillan Cancer Support are welcomed via funeral directors J Lawrence & Sons in Portswood.

  • Email fostering@southampton.gov.uk for information on fostering.