Deacon Matthew Hawkins, Sr. was born on December 24, 1941 to Mrs. Ruby Hawkins Bell and Mr. Willie Ford.  He was a very happy and inquisitive boy who enjoyed learning.  He attended public schools in Jasper, graduating from J. R. E. Lee High School in I961.  He was a scholar who took part in sports, plays, agriculture activities and developed a very strong work ethic as a youngster.  He and his siblings worked hard and eventually Hawkins became an orderly at the local hospital.

Deacon Hawkins became a member of Poplar Springs Baptist Church in 1965.  Through the years he served as a member of the Brotherhood, Sunday School teacher, trustee board, Men's Choir, finance committee, ward leader, youth director, program chairperson and deacon.  Psalm 37:23 would become his mantra:  "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord and he delighteth in his way.  Though he fall, he shall not utterly cast down for the Lord.  Deacon Hawkins knew that for those who love God and are following in His will and purpose for them, no matter what comes our way, no matter our stumbles, everything will be worked out for good.  We watched him live by this through sickness, hardships and so much more.  He never complained for he knew everything would work out for the good.

He loved his wife, children, grandchildren, siblings and family so much.  He was their absolute role model.  The greatest times in his life revolved around times with his family, friends and church.  He was extremely proud of the representation of his sons and grandsons and extended family in the United States Armed Forces.  He loved sharing their experiences and he would talk to whomever would listen.

He adored the youth department and got great joy from his work with children.  When he trained young men to lead devotion, he would smile with pride at their worship. These steps of a good man would shine through as he encouraged the participation of young folk in Sunday School, Congress of Christian Education and fellowship with local churches.  The youth trips, carnivals, cookouts and socials created memories that will last forever.

Deacon Hawkins worked diligently in First Central Baptist Association with the Boys Crusaders, the Congress Choir, Finance Department and wherever needed.  He attended the union, district congress and associations, state meetings and trainings to learn and share information with anyone who would listen.

The steps of this good man were evident on the job.  Deacon Hawkins worked for PCS Chemical Plant for 39 1/2 years.  He retired as superintendent and was a mentor for many.  He trained and helped so many to gain skillful employment.  He served on the city council for decades and was sworn in as the first African American mayor for the city of Jasper on March 13, 2000.  He served this city with concern and fairness.

The Hawkins home was a ray of hope to the homeless, those who were hungry and in despair.  He provided so many life-long skills to the boy scouts.  Deacon Hawkins put his love in action each day.  The steps of this good man were ordered by the Lord.  He was a magnificent family man and friend and those he touched, loved him unconditionally.

He was preceded in death by his mother-Ruby Hawkins Bell, Father-Willie Ford, stepfather-Columbus Bell, Sr., siblings – Ruby Bell Lee, Paul Bell, Sr., James Bell, Columbus Bell, Jr., Helen Mallory and other loved ones.

Cherishing his memories for always are his compassionate and dedicated wife of 60 years:  Mrs. Marie Daniels Hawkins;   Loving and attentive children:  Vivian D. Hawkins, Sandralene Hawkins Combs, Matthew J. (Angela) Hawkins, Jr., Wesley B. (Tamara) Hawkins, Sr., Steven W. (Sebrina) Hawkins and Chantina E. Hallback; Caring siblings:  Dorothy A. Bell, Gary E. Bell, Willie L. Thomas, Cherlyn (Paul) Gibson, and Lonnie Ford; A dear brother and friend;  Lionel (Josephine) Gordon; Affectionate and thoughtful grandchildren:  Marcus Hawkins, Alvin Powell, Johnathan (Tiffany) Hawkins, Matthew (Kyonna) Hawkins, III,  Lionel Combs, Wesley Hawkins, Jr., Brianna Hawkins, Charles Combs, Ashley Hawkins, Kayla Hawkins, and Cameron Hawkins; God-daughter:  Sharon (Al) Oliver; Adopted sons:  Billy Blackmon, Howard Blackmon, Quintin Miller and Steve Troy; Great-grands:  20; Great-great-grand: 1; Aunts:  Pastor Odie Pearl Hawkins, Pastor Maggie Hawkins, Madeline Hawkins Reid, and Cynthia Hawkins Brown; Mother-in-law:  Zeffie Lee Daniels; Siblings-in-law:  Bessie Outley, Rosa Daniels, Robert (Jeanie) Daniels, Betty (Zereah) Jackson, Sandra (Tom) Jacobson, Joanne (Kevin) Wisenhunt and Wanza Daniels; Many sorrowing nieces, nephews and cousins; Closest friends: Lamar Henderson, Henry Spencer and Robert Brown.