Mr Donald "Don" Lee Hawkins

Donald "Don" Lee Hawkins, a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and Christian Brother passed away on July 31, 2023, at the age of 91 in Lakeland, Florida. He was born on June 27, 1932, in Istachatta, Florida, to Eva Lee Hawkins and James Perry Hawkins. He was one of eight children, and his early years were filled with the joy and camaraderie of a big, close-knit family. On January 19, 1950, Don married his beloved Joy Winona Morris, and they shared a remarkable journey together spanning an incredible 73 years. Their love and devotion to one another were a true inspiration to all who knew them. He was preceded in death by his parents; seven siblings, two daughters, Martha and Donna Hawkins and Daughter-in Law, Julie Hawkins. Don was a dedicated family man and took immense pride in his children and grandchildren. He leaves behind cherished memories with his surviving family members: wife, Joy Hawkins, daughter, Patricia Ann and her husband John O’Neal Jr. of Mulberry, FL and son Donald Richard of Umatilla, FL.; two sisters, Ruth Patterson of Oxford, AL, Margaret Presley, Laurel Hill, FL; Five wonderful grandchildren: Shannon Simmons (Scotty) of Mulberry, FL; Heather Fuentes (Greg) of Mulberry; Kelly Box (Dennis) of Summerfield, FL; Travis Cahill (Susan) of Ocklawaha, FL; Brian Hawkins of Lady Lake, FL; and Donald Albritton (Jamie) and 16 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren, with another great-great-grandchild on the way. His love and guidance enriched their lives and will forever be treasured. He was immensely proud of each generation and delighted in their accomplishments. Professionally, Don was a skilled and dedicated Professional Land Surveyor for over 50 years. He left a lasting impact on his field, contributing to numerous projects that shaped the landscape of Florida. Beyond his professional achievements, Don actively engaged in various community organizations. He was a proud member of the Sertoma Club of Tampa, the Temple Terrace Masonic Lodge, and the Shriner fraternity. Don also had a passion for leisure activities. He enjoyed participating in bowling leagues for many years, where he fostered lifelong friendships. An avid outdoorsman, Don loved fishing and hunting, relishing the serenity of nature. He found joy in watching football, baseball, and NASCAR races, and his enthusiasm was contagious to those around him. With unwavering faith, Don was an active and devoted member of Lone Oak Baptist Church for approximately 32 years. He exemplified his faith through service, dedicating much of his time as a Deacon, a role he fulfilled up to his 91st birthday. Donald "Don" Lee Hawkins will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. His warm smile, generous spirit, and loving heart left an indelible mark on the lives of his family, friends, and community. May his memory be a source of comfort and strength as we honor the legacy of a remarkable man who touched so many lives. The funeral service to celebrate Don's life will be held at Lone Oak Baptist Church, where he found solace and community, on Saturday, August 5, 2023 at 1:00PM. The family will receive friends for a visiting hour from 12:00PM until service time. Committal services will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in Don's memory to the Lone Oak Baptist Church - Gary Elliott Family Life Center Building Fund.

Mr Donald "Don" Lee Hawkins

June 27, 1932 - July 31, 2023