Clarence Hawkins

He was born on March 19, 1931, in Tallulah, Louisiana to Rufus and Rosie Hawkins (deceased). Clarence was the oldest of 8 children born to that union. He was a dedicated deacon and an exemplary example of faith and courage for all he encountered.

Clarence began his career by attending Madison Pass Training School in Tallulah, Louisiana and shortly afterwards he married his wife Marie Crawford on Christmas Day 1951. The Newlyweds moved to Chicago, Illinois where Clarence found employment with Aagard Packing House. In 1964 Clarence relocated his family to Las Vegas, Nevada where he raised their 3 daughters - Diane Womack (Louis), Doresteen Turner (Fred) and Betty (Samuel) King (deceased) and continued his career as a construction foreman with the Construction and Laborers Union Local 872 until he retired.

Clarence joined Greater New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church where he actively participated as a Deacon, Greeter, Trustee, and a member of Men's Ministry. His dedication to opening doors of opportunity within the church through his handyman services will be remembered by many who attended services there. He always lived out his strong faith in God and never shied away from an opportunity to serve Him.

He leaves behind 6 grandchildren - Vina (Kirby) Henderson, Latonya and Jasiri Williams, Steven Hawkins, Phillip (Ellice) Turner, Devaughn (Kaitlin)Turner - 10 great-grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, sisters Bessie Coffield and Verlie Ross (Lustray), a host of nieces, nephews, family members and very good friends who will all miss him dearly.

Clarence was preceded in death by his wife Marie Hawkins, daughter Betty King, mother and father Rufus and Rosie Hawkins, siblings Essie Walker, Rosie Lewis, Ollie Cartwright, Vera Coby, and Willie Hawkins.

Deacon Clarence Hawkins had an extraordinary impact on his family through his unconditional love of everyone he encountered - leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten by those who knew and loved him best.