HERBERT HAWKINS
Herbert Hawkins, 71 of Albany, passed from this world on Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2020. A graveside service celebrating his life was held Monday, Oct. 12, at the Albany Cemetery Pavilion under the direction of Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home. Jim Cox officiated the service.
Herbert Wayne Hawkins was born on Oct. 24,1948, in Gorman, Texas, to parents Herbert C. Hawkins and Mary (Waters) Hawkins. The family later moved to Albany, Texas, where he graduated from Albany High School in 1967.
While in high school, he met the love of his life: Debbie Jo Ledbetter. The two were married Sept. 17, 1967 Shortly after graduation.
Herb attended and graduated from Texas Tech University in 1973. He was a teacher and coach at Lubbock Monterey, Seymour, Olney, and Hawkins before becoming an electrician for CE Jacobs in Albany 1979. He then founded his own oil company in 1993 that is still producing today. Herb had many successful ventures including ranching with his son and family.
He was baptized in 1980 and faithfully served as a teacher, fellowship leader, and community outreach leader. He also served on the Albany school board, the Little League board, and as a deacon at the Church of Christ in Albany. Herb, who was also known to the family as “Dad,” “Paw,” or “Bub,” was the best believer, son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend.
He touched the lives of so many people in unique and special ways. So many people have expressed just how well he took care of everyone and, in doing so, touched more lives than he ever could have imagined. Whether it was a helping hand or offering words of wisdom, you could always count on Herb. In addition to being of service whenever and wherever he could, he also found great joy in spending time with his family at various sporting events, making it a point to never miss a game his grandkids participated in.
Not only was he a huge Dallas Cowboys fan, but he also sponsored friends and family for Texas Ranger baseball games for many, many years.
He was preceded in death by his parents Herbert and Mary; sister Reva Hawkins; mother-in-law Nell Jean Ledbetter; and father-in-law Harrell Ledbetter.
Mr. Hawkins is survived by his wife of 53 years, Debbie; daughter Samantha Hawkins-Uys and husband Craig; son Matthew Hawkins and wife Jennifer; granddaughters Ava, Audrey, and Addison Hawkins; grandsons Brent and Sean Uys; sister Nancy Nelson; brother Roy Hawkins; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name can be made to the Elliott Street Church of Christ’s Mission Fund and can be left at the Melton-Kitchens Funeral Home office. Condolences can be made online at meltonkitchens.com. PD
