The matriarch of the Hawlins family was one of six children born to the late Wiley & Leola Williams. They instilled the ultimate gift of introducing God into her life. Born in Fort Gaines, Georgia, on April 21, 1928, Mother Hawkins attended Asbury Speight High School. She was the second eldest of six children, all of whom proceeded her in death.  

Throughout her life, she was a devoted servant of God. From a very young age, she accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior. Her church experience began at Ebenezer A.M.E. Church, where she served faithfully. 

Mother Hawkins moved to Miami, Florida, in the late 1950s. She worked for Poly Davis restaurant and later became a domestic worker until her retirement after many years of service. In 1960 she joined New Providence Missionary Baptist Church one week after the church was formed under the leadership of Reverend C.J. Burney. Mother Hawkins was committed to missionary work and was a member of Usher Board #4 and later became a member of the Senior Usher Ministry. 

Throughout the years as a member of New Providence, Mother Hawkins served under the leadership of the late Reverend James Walthour, the late Reverend Johnnie McGregor, and the late Reverend Vinson Davis. She was appointed to the Mother’s Board Ministry by Reverend Vinson Davis, where she served faithfully. Over the past 13 years, she continued as a faithful servant under the present leadership of Pastor Steven J. Caldwell.

Mother Hawkins was not only a dedicated church member, but she also extended her missionary work into the community serving as the President of OTAC Housing Association to help promote affordable housing for the underprivileged.  She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.                           

Mother Hawkins would eventually find her way back to Fort Gaines, Georgia, as she became a caregiver for brother until his death. She has always remained a faithful member of New Providence and moved back to Miami to continue her service to the church and community with God as her guide. Her acts of charity and kindness stood out in the minds and hearts of those around her.

Mother Hawkins understood the importance of having Godly principles in her life, and she introduced God into the lives of her nine children, ensuring that they attended church and participated in ministries. She had a tradition of early morning prayer with her children every Sunday before church. If you were in her household, you came to the breakfast table for prayer. Mother Hawkins enjoyed spending time with her entire family and especially those grands! She is going to be truly missed.

Mother Hawkins leaves to cherish her memories: her loving children, Savannah Jeune, Robert Hawkins, Olivia Elusma (Tony), Roy Hawkins (Grace), Jessie Pierre-Charles (Jean), Brenda Cooper (Perry), Marilyn Hawkins, Henry Owens (Carla), and RoseMary Dennis (Everett); 17 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; and a host of family and friends.