Tommie L. Hawkins

Mr. Tommie L. Hawkins, 85, of Palm Bay, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2026.

Born on May 7, 1941, in Benham, Kentucky, Tommie moved to Detroit, Michigan, as an infant, where he was raised until enlisting in the United States Army. He was the beloved son of William D. Hawkins and Prevella Motely Hawkins, both of whom preceded him in death. Tommie also has three older siblings: Pinky Robertson, Shirley Hawkins, and William Hawkins, Jr., who also had preceded him in death.

Tommie proudly served his country in the United States Army for 26 years, retiring with the rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC). Following his distinguished military career, he began a second career with Harris Corporation, where he faithfully worked for another 26 years before retiring.

On June 8, 1963, Tommie married the love of his life, Joann Langford Hawkins, who preceded him in death. Together, they built a loving family and shared a devoted marriage of 47 years. Their union was blessed with three (3) daughters: Chanell Payne (Alvin, son-in-law); Dana Stewart, and Tracey Shelton, all of Palm Bay, Florida, who lovingly cherish his memory.

He was a proud and devoted grandfather to Skylar Lowery; Adrian Payne; Jasmine Payne (Evenson Jean Noel, grandson-in-law); Quenton Shelton; Terence Stewart, Jr. (Abigail, granddaughter-in-law); Jalen Shelton, and Dorian Shelton. He also cherished his two (2) step-grandchildren, Twanise Payne and Aaliyah Payne.

He is also survived by his great-grandchildren: Zaiden Lowery; Bellamy Stewart; Jalen Shelton II; Levi Stewart; Oaklyn Shelton, and Maverick Shelton. He also leaves behind two (2) cherished step-great-grandchildren, Traveon Payne and Kaiden Payne. In addition, he is survived by a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Tommie will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his dedicated military service, his work ethic, and the kindness and wisdom he shared with everyone who knew him. His legacy of honor, integrity, and devotion will continue to live on in the lives of those who loved him.