I knew Ron as BSU Director at Memphis State when I was a student at Union, but I'm from Memphis. One summer, I worked near the campus and would attend lunch meetings. Then when I began working in Student Ministries, he became a colleague. He was an amazing minister and loved students. He was a blessing to me and my life was better because I knew him.

Ron was a treasure.  He was always ready with a smile and kept us bedraggled students at the BCM in Memphis fed and edified, emanating the love of the savior in his unique way.  I still try to emulate his attitude and his crockpot meatballs with ketchup and grape jelly!  Sorry if I gave away a secret . . .but I thank God for having spent time with Ron.

I am so sorry for your loss.  I knew Ron from my days in dental school. He was such man of faith and his love for Jesus and students was evident in all that he did. I will always remember how he encouraged me to pursue mission trips and use what I learned in school to help others and proclaim the name of Jesus.

Ron was a blessing to so many over the years. What a privilege God gave him to minister to so many young men and women over the years. He was able to invest in their lives during some of their most formative years. Thank you Ron and we look forward to seeing you again. 

Mrs Joyce and family, I was saddened to read about Ron's passing this morning. He was a fine, godly man that ministered to so many college students. He was a wonderful mentor and teacher at the MSU BSU. He encouraged me to go out of my comfort zone many times and I'm forever grateful! May God comfort you all during this time!

Ron was there for us, at the BSU, every day.  Always had an open door for us to ask anything. 

Mrs. Joyce, I'm so sorry to hear of Ron's passing. I have so many fond memories of Ron at the BSU, on mission trips, on regional and state BSU trips, etc. He was always available to talk with us (students) and to provide godly council. I'm forever thankful to have had him in my life. I truly believe that without the BSU and Ron's influence in my life, I may not have fared so well in life. I wouldn't trade those years for anything in this world. Prayers for peace that passes understanding for you and your family. Much love. Rhonda (Schmitz) Walker

Joyce - We are so sorry to hear of Ron’s passing but through tears rejoice that he is healed of his earthly body and now sitting at the feet of the Savior!  We have so MANY wonderful memories of our time under his leadership at the BSU.  From counsel meetings, mission trips (what happens on SPOTS trips stays on SPOTS trips) and Shawn’s time living there just to name a few.  But our greatest memory is him saying a blessing and prayer at our rehearsal dinner almost 23 years ago.  He was such an incredible part of our college years and will be greatly missed.

Love and prayers, 
Shawn and Michelle

It was my great honor to serve with Ron as a Campus Minister in Tennessee, from 1988 until his retirement. When I came to Tn. As a young Campus Minister, Ron as one of the older ministers on staff, was very kind and encouraging to me.  I learned a lot from Ron about how to be a good colleague and a good Campus Minister.  I’m so very thankful for the fact that I was able to work with him and have a friendship with him.  A fine man and Christian gentleman!

Thankful for Ron’s commitment to God in serving college students in Memphis. He served on our BCM board at UTM during my first few years. It was always a blessing to talk with him and learn from him. 

Morgan Owen
Baptist Collegiate Ministry
UT Martin 


OBITUARY

Ronnie Lee Hawkins

October 10, 1942 – January 5, 2021

Family Funeral Care

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