J.W. Hawkins

Mr. J.W. Hawkins, age 85 of Willacoochee, Ga. passed away Tuesday, August 01, 2017 at his son’s home in Nashville, Ga following an extended illness.   A native of Atkinson County, Mr. Hawkins was born June l6, l932, son of Oscar and Verdie Cribbs Hawkins. He lived for most of his life in the Willacoochee area, was a retired farmer and loved to fish and spend time with his family. He was a member of the Church of God. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Dean Hawkins, a daughter, Mary Ann Roe and a grandson, Toby Hawkins.   Survivors include:   2 Sons: Jay Hawkins and wife Brenda of Nashville, Ga.             Ray Hawkins and wife Lisa of Douglas, Ga..   2 Daughters:    Melissa Velazquez and Fiancé Abelino Godnez of Nashville, Ga.                         Melinda Hawkins and Fiancé Travis Mizell of Axson, Ga.   7 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews, and other relatives also survive.   Graveside Funeral services for Mr. Hawkins were held Saturday, August 05, 2017 at 11:00 A.M. at Willacoochee City Cemetery with Rev. Eddie Dee officiating. Special musical selections “Just to Know Him” and “I Want us to be Together in Heaven” were rendered by Rev. Eddie Dee (mandolin) and Peggy Dee (guitar)The interment followed in the Willacoochee City Cemetery.   Serving as active pallbearers were: Ethan Hawkins, Brandon Roe, Jay Hawkins, Travis Mizell, Josh Holcombe and Jay Hawkins, Jr.   Relihan Funeral Home of Pearson, Ga. was in charge of the arrangements.