Hersey Ree Hawkins Sr.

Hersey Ree Hawkins, Sr, was born on January 4, 1945 in Pickens, Arkansas to the late Clinton and Cascinie Hawkins. He received his education at Reed High School. Growing up Hersey had a close relationship with his brothers and sisters and they maintained that closeness as adults.

On July 2, 1961 he married Laura Jones. In 1965 he moved his family to Chicago, IL as part of the Great Migration for better economic opportunities. He obtained a position as a United Auto Worker with Ford Motor Company, where he worked for 30 years until his retirement.

He had a passion for debate, it was his favorite pastime to “argue” his point with family and friends. He loved music and it ranged from Gospel to Hip Hop. He was known for his intelligence, his wit and he loved to laugh at his own jokes. Hersey was thoughtful and generous to all that needed help.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Lee Hawkins, Vance Hawkins, and Larry Hawkins.

He leaves to cherish his memory his wife, Laura; 3 daughters, Marlyin Hawkins, Helen Everett and DeShelle Hawkins; 2 sons, Hersey (Jennifer) Hawkins and Kennie (Kisha) Hawkins; 6 Grandchildren, Roosevelt Everett, Brandon Dragon, Corey Hawkins, Devon Hawkins, Tayelor Watkins and Jayden Hawkins; 3 Step-Grandchildren Brianna Buckner, Kianna Buckner and Michael Buckner Jr.; Step-Great Grandson Aryan Buckner; 3 Sisters, Lula Mae Page, Doretha Hawkins, and Dorothy Hawkins-Davis; Brother, Clinton (Debra) Hawkins, Jr.; Long time friends Leo Madison and Calbert Wright; numerous sister and brother in laws, nephews, nieces and a host of other family members and friends.

A visitation for Hersey will be held Tuesday, January 16, 2024 from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM at Greenwood Memory Lawn Mortuary, 719 North 27th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85009. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 12:30 PM with committal service to follow.