James Thomas Hawkins, 72, of St. Simons Island, Georgia, passed into his heavenly home surrounded by loved ones on Sunday, November 26, 2023.

James was born on November 18, 1951, to Claud and Thelma Hawkins in Dalton, Georgia, and was raised in McRae, Georgia. After graduating from Telfair County High School, he went on to study electrical engineering, receiving a bachelor's and master's degree from Georgia Institute of Technology.

He began his career with Georgia Power in 1973 as a junior engineer in Atlanta. He later held positions in Athens, Madison, Carrollton, and St. Simons Island, where he retired as an operating supervisor after 44 years.

James was a recipient of the Paul Harris Fellow award in Madison, Georgia, the highest form of recognition received for his outstanding community impact as a Rotarian.

As childhood sweethearts, James met his wife Mary Ann Hawkins at First Methodist Church in McRae and together they celebrated more than 50 years of marriage. James and Mary Ann welcomed three children, Mandy McLendon of Peachtree Corners, Georgia (Hailey, 13, Emily, 12, and Griffin, 9), Rachel Duncan (Jake) of Brunswick, Georgia (Ben, 12, and Ryan, 9), and Tyler Hawkins (Alexa) of Saint Simons Island, Georgia.

James enjoyed the simple aspects of life including morning walks, swimming, golf and tennis, and meals out with family and friends. But his greatest joy was any time spent with his children and grandchildren.

James was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife, all his children and grandchildren, his older brother Fred Hawkins (Marietta, GA), his twin brother Jack Hawkins (Marietta, GA), eight nieces and nephews, and his grand pups Winston, Jax, and Zara.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Sunday, December 3, 2023, at 3 p.m. at:

Lovely Lane Chapel

1190 Arthur J. Moore Dr.

Saint Simons Island, GA 31522

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in James' name to Hospice of the Golden Isles and Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, two organizations close to the family's heart.