Joe A. Hawkins

1st Sgt Joe A. Hawkins was born in Sastre, Argentina, in 1931, son of Dr. and Mrs. Thomas B. Hawkins, Southern Baptist Missionaries in Argentina. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on March 19th, 2011, in El Paso at the age of 79. He was preceded in death by his parents and sisters: Luisa Schubert and Amie Hawkins. He is survived by his sister, Josie Smith; also Luisa Simonato wife of 48 years; daughter, Barbara DeHass and husband Jim; sons: Thomas and wife, Brenda, John and wife Marissa; grandchildren: Emily and Darby DeHass, Caroline and Joseph Hawkins: step-grandchildren: Cassie Clanton and Toby Jackson; and step-great-grandchildren: Sterling and Jackson Clanton. He joined the United States Army as a volunteer in 1951. He served in Korea and saw combat in two tours of duty in Vietnam. He remained in the Army serving his country for 28 years. During his service he received many meritorious awards including the Bronze Star, which he valued the most. After his retirement from the Army he served 18 years in the US Postal Service. A special thanks to all who showed their loving support during the last few years. It will never be forgotten. Visitation will be held on Thursday, March 24th from 5-7 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home Northeast. Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 25th at 11:30 a.m. at Sunset Funeral Home Northeast. Committal Service will follow at 1 p.m. at Fort Bliss National Cemetery with Full Military Honors. The Reverend Dr. Robert Nickell, officiating. Please visit on-line Register Book at www.sunsetfuneralhomes.net. In lieu of flowers donations to Hospice of El Paso or to the Humane Society of El Paso are suggested. “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.” Ecclesiastes 9:10 NIV. Joe A. Hawkins was the embodiment of this sage advice. Whatever he did, he did with all his might.