Jackie Lynn Hawkins

Jack was born on November 4, 1964, in Newport, Arkansas, to Cynthia Irene Clark and Julian Ray Young. He spent much of his life in Arkansas and traveled throughout many states across the United States, always embracing life with curiosity and an open mind.

He was previously married to Lisa Davis for 14 years, and together they shared four daughters: Jennifer Hawkins, Ashley Birkholz, Cynthia West, and Katherine Hawkins. He is also survived by his son, Christopher Roberts, and his sons-in-law: John Mertz, Trent Birkholz, Jacob West, and Joey Jennings.

Jack was a proud grandfather. He is survived by Jennifer Hawkins’ children: Persephone Mertz, Elliott Mertz, Damon Mertz, Ronin Mertz, and Quentin Mertz; Ashley Birkholz’s children: Anabelle Birkholz, Alexandrea Birkholz, and Killian Birkholz; and Katherine Hawkins’ son, Joseph Jackson Jennings—named in honor of his grandfather—with another grandchild expected in August.

He is also survived by his sisters, Sandra Daneri (and her son, Zachary Kovarna), Lisa Hatfield, and Sheila Hooley.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Cynthia Irene McGruder and Julian Ray Young, and his brothers, Orville Lee Young and James Ray Hawkins.

Jack will be remembered as a charismatic and kind soul who never met a stranger. He was loyal to a fault, giving, and deeply considerate of others. He lived without judgment and had a way of making people feel welcome and understood. He wasn’t afraid to live life on his own terms. He was a proud father, grandfather, and uncle, and he considered family more important than anything else. He felt deeply and loved those close to him with his whole heart. He found joy in simple things—old cartoons, comic books, and, most of all, spending time with his family and friends. Anyone who knew Jack can still hear him saying, “Hey loves, how we doing?”—words that never failed to bring comfort and a smile.

He was an irreplaceable part of so many people’s lives. His family and friends will be forever grateful for the time spent together, the laughter and joy shared, the comfort he provided during times of heartache, and the values he taught—not through words, but through his actions.