Reverend Patricia Hopkins- Washington's relationship with Poplar Grove began at a young age, as she was educated at Poplar Grove School. She went on to attend Jefferson Business School, where she studied Secretarial Science. 
She accepted the call of ministry in January 1991 under the guidance of Rev. Vernell McAdoo. She preached her initial sermon on February 14, 1991. Rev. Washington was admitted to the Annual Conference as Licentiate under Bishop H. H. Brookins. 
In 1994 Min. Washington was ordained as an itinerant deacon under Bishop F. C. James. 
Rev. Washington joined Poplar Grove AME Church as a young child. She has served the church in a vast number of roles throughout the years. In addition to being a member of the church since her early childhood, served as a member of the Junior Choir. Later she served as the church Secretary, a Trustee, Steward and member of the Senior Choir, Culinary Committee and now she currently serves as an Associate Minister. 
Rev. Washington has three biological children, two sons and one daughter. She also has three grandsons and one granddaughter. But she has many other sons and daughters, and grandchildren in the ministry. She has a special loving and supportive bond with the McIntyre children.