James Raymond Hawkins, Sr.

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     Today, we gathered to celebrate the life of Raymond. A beloved son, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend. A man who in his own simple and soulful way, left an unforgettable mark on all of us.
     He was an easy-going soul, a great spirit who embraced life without pretense. He found joy in the little things: the sound of laughter during family gatherings, a heartfelt conversation with a friend, a walk just to clear the mind, or a plate of home-cooked food shared with love. There was something beautiful in his simplicity, a quiet gratitude for life’s small blessings that made being in his presence feel like home.
     He enjoyed life in a way that was uniquely his own. Whether it was listening to the music that moved him, cracking open a cold Budweiser on a regular day, or just soaking in the moment. He didn’t need much to be content. He lived from the heart, grounded, open, and real.
     Yes, he had his battles, struggles that many of us carry in our own way but those battles never defined him. His love for his people was unwavering. He gave what he could, when he could, how he could and it came from a place of sincerity.
His thoughtfulness was quiet but powerful. A helping hand when you needed it most even if it sometimes cost you 50 cents or a beer, a hug that said “I see you” without a word. That’s what we’ll miss most. The way he made us feel seen, and loved in a way that was gentle and unspoken.
     He may no longer walk beside us, but he lives on in the music he loved, in the laughter we shared, in every moment of connection we continue to hold dear. His presence is etched into the fabric of our lives, and for that we are forever grateful.
Rest easy Hawk. You were full of love, and you were deeply loved in return. We’ll carry you with us always. James worked as maintenance worker for NYC Housing Authority. James also worked at Bellvue Hospital in the same capacity.  

     He is preceded in death by his father Malcom Hawkins, Great-grandmother Juila Phillips and Grandmother Hazel Jackson. 

     James is survived by his mother Hazel Hawkins, his children, James Raymond Hawkins Jr., William Murray and step son Tony Jackson. His siblings Monique Hawkins and Milton Hawkins. Uncle William Wilson and aunt Carlotta Taylor. James is a grandfather  of  20 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews cousins and friends. 

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