Christine Faith Millay

Christine Faith (Hawkins) Millay passed away surrounded by loved ones on March 27, 2023 after battling pancreatic cancer. A resident of San Diego, she was 49. Those who knew her will remember Christy for her humility, kindness, loyalty, love, honesty, and eternal smile. She touched many lives and was a bright spark in this world.

Christy was born on Halloween, October 31, 1973 to Patricia and the late David Hawkins in St. Louis, Missouri. She grew up in the suburb of Chesterfield with her younger sister, Becky. In her youth, she was the “best friend” to many, surrounding herself with inseparable friends from school, girl scouts, church and the neighborhood. Always ambitious and studious, she excelled at cheerleading, choir, and student council.

Christy earned a bachelor’s degree in 1996 from Texas Christian University with a double major in political science and journalism and a minor in history. She interned at KSDK News Channel 5 in St. Louis and the White House press office in Washington, D.C. before launching her journalism career writing for the Dallas Morning News, St. Louis Business Journal, and San Diego Union-Tribune. As Council Representative for the San Diego City Council, she helped hundreds of neighbors who were victims of the 2003 Cedar Fire providing comfort and hope through a time of tragedy.

Christy was a dedicated mother who fiercely loved her three children, Caroline, Luke, and Morgan and her constant companion, her dog, Bentley. Her favorite inspirational quote was written by Louisa May Alcott. “Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in them, and try to follow where they lead.”

She is survived by her beloved children Caroline, Luke, and Morgan, husband, Gavin Millay, and mother Patricia Hawkins of San Diego. Also, sister, Rebecca Reid (John) and their children, Ellie and Lydia, of San Rafael, California. Her uncles, Gary Hawkins (Terry) of Sherborn, Massachusetts, Eric Lindemann (Sheryl) of Riverside, California, and Mike Schultz (the late Eloise) of Casper, Wyoming, cousins, nieces and friends. She was predeceased by her father, David Hawkins, grandparents Fred and Faith Hawkins and Henry and Bertha Lindemann, and beloved family dog, Ramsey.

She will be buried alongside her father whom she considered her best friend, confidant, and hero. A private service and Celebration of Life will be held on May 21, 2023. In lieu of flowers, donations in Christine’s memory can be made to Helen Woodward Animal Center.