James William Hawkins

He was born September 19,1963 in Alton Illinois to William Robert & Pauline (Millen) Hawkins.

My dad was a true fighter who loved his family & dog, Rocky dearly. He loved spending his time outdoors hiking or working on cars or spending his time with his grandkids and nieces and nephews. He was a volunteer firefighter for cottage hills before moving to Gosport were he served as the assistant chief for many years on the GVFD before hanging up his turnout gear due to health reasons.

He coached softball for many years at OVSC. He wasn’t always easy to get along with but he was an amazing man who never knew a stranger. He will be missed by many, he took a piece of us all with him when he left.

He is survived by his wife Deb Hawkins of Bloomington IN, a daughter Allina Deckard of Gosport IN, a son Robert J Hawkins of Gosport IN, two step-sons Cliff Kent of Bloomington IN, and Jimmy Kent of Bloomington IN, six grandkids Mason, Bentlee, Olivia, Mattee, Destiny, Ariyana. Sisters, Deborah Hawkins of Brighton IL, Paula Wagenblast of Elderado IL, Kathy Swarragin of Illinois, Kathy Mcpike of Oregon, Susie of Alton IL; and many nieces and nephews.

He is proceeded in death by his parents, William and Pauline Hawkins; Brother, Robert “Bobby” Sparks; and both grandparents, Paul and Francis Millen.

A Private viewing was held for immediate family before cremation. A celebration of life sevice will be held Sunday, February 7, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. at the Gosport Community Building, 301 North 9th Street, Gosport, IN 47433.