James Edward Hawkins Sr.

He faithfully served his country for 45 years. He retired after 24 years in the US Air Force on active duty and 21 years as the Civilian Senior Instructor in the Orthotic Career Field. He was the First Black American in the Orthotic Field (1962). He was involved in the training and counseling of future military orthotists in the USAF Orthotic Apprentice Course. His last position was Civilian Senior Orthotist/Instructor Orthotic Lab Department of Orthopedic Surgery and Assistant Course Supervisor at Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center Lackland AFB, Texas.

He belonged to numerous Orthotic/Prosthetic organizations and was a certified Orthotist by American Board for Certification (ABC) and Board for Orthotic Certification (BOC). Mr. Hawkins served as Vice Chairman of the BOC Board of Directors under the direction and guidance of CEO Dr. Donald Fedder (deceased) of the University of Maryland. He was an Orthotist for over 45 years in the USAF/DOD and worked part-time in civilian orthotic labs. He was a member of Northwest Hills Christian Church. He was a life member of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) and TREDDA.

His Parents Russell and Mattie Mae McClusky Hawkins, Sister LuWelyn Hawkins and Stepmother Margaret Hawkins preceded him in death.

James is survived by his Wife Karen Majek Hoppes Hawkins; Sister Russchele Abraham; Children Craig (Yvonne) Hawkins, James Edward Hawkins Jr., Tarin Hawkins, Charles Farmer, Tara Octaviano, Kehaulani Crystal McCoy, and Eddy Cruz; Grandchildren Faith Hawkins, James Edward Hawkins III “Trey”, and Theresa Octaviano; Great-grandchildren AJ and Jeremiah; Brothers-in-law Scott (Amy) Majek, Tom Majek; Nieces L’tanya (Vincent) McDaniel, Asmara Abraham, Olivia Majek and Hattie Majek; Nephews Capt. Eli Majek USAF, Dr. Sam Majek, Yonas Abraham and Micah Abraham; Great-niece Shanelle Jones; Great-great-nieces Mya and Mckenzie; and numerous family and friends whose lives he touched deeply.

A committal service will take place on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Resurrection Cemetery at Cordi-Marian Pavillion, 11624 Culebra Rd, San Antonio, TX 78253.