Ronald Hawkins, Sr.

Ronnie, as he was called, was born to his parents Ophelia Scott and Thomas Hawkins, Sr on January 23, 1952 in New Orleans, Louisiana. He was the seventh of thirteen children. Although small in stature, he was a fighter and protector of his family. Ronnie was educated in the Jefferson Parish School System in New Orleans, Louisiana and he received his Associates Degree from Saint Leo University in Saint Leo, Florida. In 1972, Ronnie joined the United States Air Force and fought in the Vietnam War. During his time in the Air Force, he was stationed in Thailand and Colorado. In 1973 he was stationed at Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. While there, he met a beautiful woman by the name of Iris Hickman on Lackland Air Force Base, in San Antonio, Texas. After a brief courtship, they were married on December 21, 1974. One year later, the couple welcomed their first daughter, Shonda Renea. Ronnie, Iris and Shonda then moved to San Vito Italy Air Force Base, in San Vito, Italy. In 1979, while moving back from Italy to the United States the couple welcomed their second daughter, TiRhonda Denise into the world. Ronnie, Iris, Shonda, and TiRhonda then moved to Sumter, South Carolina to be stationed at Shaw Air Force Base, where they lived for 5 years. In 1985, Ronnie transitioned out of the United States Air Force and relocated his family to New Orleans, Louisiana. While there, Ronnie and Iris welcomed their third child, and only son, Ronald II. In 1987, the couple and their three children moved to their forever home in San Antonio, Texas. That same year Ronnie began working as a Supervisor at Pace Foods, and maintained that position for ten years, before being medically retired. Ronnie’s wife and his three beautiful children were his world. Ronnie would re-dedicate his life to God by joining Greater Love Missionary Church where he served as a Deacon, a member of the men’s choir, and a member of the usher board. He was also a Prince Hall Mason, where he earned his 33rd degree. In his spare time Ronnie enjoyed spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Rocky”, siblings, cousins, and friends. He loved watching westerns, and black and white movies. He enjoyed fishing and working with his hands. Ronnie was a thoughtful gift giver. It brought him great joy to give unexpected, thoughtful gifts to his family and friends. Ronnie’s style could not be surpassed. He was sharp as a tack and known for his impeccable wardrobe. Everything Ronnie did was from his heart. He was a God fearing man that loved the Lord and his family until the end. He was preceded in death by his parents; Ophelia Hawkins and Thomas Hawkins, Sr. his sister; Ruby Hawkins Becker, his brother; Marvin Hawkins,his in-laws; Georgia Mae Hickman, and Coolidge Hickman, sister in law; Idessa "Tina" Hawkins, brother in laws; Ornette Hickman, Kenneth Hickman, Danny Hickman, Larry Hickman and Wayne Walters, and grandchild; Ty’Ron J. Hawkins. Left to cherish special times and memories are: his wife; Iris Hawkins, his children, Shonda Stevenson (Vanessa), TiRhonda Simpson (David) and Ronald Hawkins, II; his grandchildren; Anthony “AJ” Stevenson,II, Aaron Stevenson, Khristopher Simpson, Ronald “Tre” Hawkins, III, and Dorian Simpson. His brothers; Thomas Hawkins, (Dorothy), Alton "TC" Hawkins, New Orleans, Louisiana, Kirbie Hawkins,New Orleans, Louisiana, Jarvis Hawkins (Vera), Houston, TX, and James Hawkins (Elaine) Hawkins, New Orleans, Louisiana; his sisters; Thelma Washington (George, Sr.),New Orleans, Louisiana, Claudette Autrey, New Orleans, Louisiana, Debra Johnson (Kenneth), New Orleans, Louisiana, Carmen Walters, New Orleans, Louisiana, Angela Horne (Shanan), Cypress, TX., brother in laws; Rickey Hickman (Cheryl), Kirby Hickman (Delores), Kim Hickman (Pat), Timmy (Diane), sister in laws; Ghuetta James (Winfred), and Tonda Hickman, godchildren; Karen Washington, and Autumn “Bri” Terry and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, loved ones and friends.