Douglas David Hawkins, 95, of Safford, peacefully passed into eternity Feb.19. Douglas was born Aug. 23, 1923, in Eden, Arizona to David Elijah and Lula Colvin Hawkins.
Douglas attended schools in Pima and spent his free time helping on the family farm. In 1943, he joined the United States Army earning the rank of Corporal, serving during World War II, before being honorably discharged in 1945.
After his discharge, he returned home where he fell in love with Edith Jean Foster. On Nov. 30, 1946, the couple married in Lordsburg, New Mexico, and to this union came Carolyn Jean, Marylin Sue, Cathy Ann, Jimmy Douglas, and Brenda Joyce Hawkins. The family settled in Pima, where Douglas once again began farming. He loved spending time gardening, hunting, and fishing.
Douglas is survived by his children, Marylin Sue (Sam) Smith, Cathy Ann (Marvin) Ray, Jimmy Douglas Hawkins, and son-in-law, Bob Benitez; his siblings, Bill Hawkins, Dave Hawkins, Dan Hawkins, and Lorretta Graves; seven grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife Edith Hawkins; his parents, David and Lula Hawkins; and his two daughters, Carolyn Jean Hawkins and Brenda Joyce Benitez.
A viewing will be held Sunday evening, Feb. 24, from 3 until 5 p.m., at the McDougal’s Caldwell Funeral Chapel and again Monday morning, February 25 at 9 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Pima Stake Center, after which the funeral services will begin at 10 a.m., with Bishop Paul Anger conducting. Interment will be in the Eden Cemetery following services.
Arrangements are under the direction of McDougal’s Caldwell Funeral Chapel & Gila Valley Crematory. Online condolences may be extended at www.caldwellfuneralchapel.com.
