Ernest M Hawkins

Ernest Hawkins Jr., passed on Friday, September 16, 2022, after years of failing health due to complications of Agent Orange. Like a warrior, he fought to the very end. He was a disabled Vietnam Veteran and a Staff Sgt. of the US Army.

Born in Guilford County, Ernest was the husband of over 34 years to Judy Strange Hawkins. Also surviving is his daughter, Nicole Lunsford; son-in-law, Judd Hamren; granddaughter, Jessy Hamren; sisters-in-law, Shirley Mann and Shelby McLendon. He was predeceased by his daughter, Tonya Hamren and his service dog and faithful companion, Elton.

Ernest enjoyed time spent with special friend, Zanne Gibbs of Elon, NC, Tommy Belton of Burlington, NC, Jean Claude Blandcard, Jim Walters, Bill Crittenden, Richard Wiencke, Ste Page, Steve Lail and Ted Sorter, all of North Myrtle Beach.

A graduate of Western High School, Ernest attended Alamance Community College with studies in Mechanical Engineering. He was a proud US Army Veteran having served in the 1st Calvary Division with two tours in the Vietnam Conflict. He was awarded the Army Commendation Medal W/V device, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. Ernest was a member of the Disabled American Veterans, 1st Cav Association and the American Legion.

Ernest retired as a maintenance supervisor from Boulineau’s Inc. in North Myrtle Beach, where he relocated in 2000. Prior to moving to North Myrtle Beach, he worked for Armstrong World Industries in mechanical maintenance and for many years, he was a millwright in the lumber industry. Ernest enjoyed working with his hands and when in good health, you could find him on any day in his shop where he could repair most anything.

Together with his wife Judy, Ernest enjoyed their time spent together, living at the beach, and eating out with friends. He was a gentle man who spread kindness wherever he went. He brought joy to those he met and almost always they left with a smile. Ernie was most proud of his wife, children, and his granddaughter.

The family would like to thank Dr. Zimmerson, Dr. Zaenger, Dr. Meyers, Dr. Muresan and their staffs for the compassion shown during Ernie’s difficult and lengthy illness. Also, many thanks to the McLeod Hospice team, especially Hannah, Ashley, Hope, Wendy and Terry for allowing Ernie to remain home, which was his wish. Thank you to our friends who stood with us and gave lots of support during his lengthy illness.

Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 20, 2022 at Lee Funeral Home and Crematory, 11850 Highway 90, Little River, SC. The family will receive friends from noon until 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home prior to the service. Burial will follow the service in Southern Palms Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorials be made to The Humane Society of Myrtle Beach, P.O. Box 3369, NMB, SC 29582 or the charity of one’s choice.

Please share memories and condolences at www.leefhandcrematory.com.