Helen L. Hawkins
Helen L. Hawkins, beloved mother, storyteller and cherished member of the community, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2025 at the age of 95.
Born on Jan. 2, 1930, in Troy, Ohio, she graced the world with her presence for nearly a century, spreading joy and love to all who knew her.
Helen was a proud member of the Belfast Church of Grace, where she found joy and comfort in her faith and community. Known for her creativity, she spent many hours writing enchanting stories and crafting challenging puzzles that brought families and friends together. As a WWII Canteen Girl, Helen played an integral role in supporting the war effort, embodying the spirit of resilience and dedication that defined her generation.
Her passion for collecting various items was not just a hobby; it was a way for her to weave stories into every corner of her home, sharing a piece of history with those fortunate enough to visit. Helen’s warm smile, gentle spirit, and unwavering love for her family and friends will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.
A devoted homemaker, Helen dedicated her life to her family and the warm, nurturing home she created. She will be lovingly remembered by her son, Mark (Gina) Hawkins; daughters, Ellen (David) Granlund, Anna Ritter, Carol (Randy) Wachler and Mary Jayne (Steve) Brown; 18 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren and several nieces, nephews, cousins and countless other special friends. Her legacy, filled with laughter and shared moments, will eternalize through their lives and the lives of their children.
Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Hugh and Ethel (Lachey) Turner; husband, Howard Hawkins, to whom she was married for 75 years; a daughter, Linda Meece; grandson, Joe Granlund; brother, Hugh Turner Jr.; and sisters, Doris Lindsay and Norma Williams.
Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Friday, May 9 at the Thompson Funeral Home. Burial will follow in the Samantha Methodist Cemetery. Friends may call from 11 a.m. until time of services on Friday at the Thompson Funeral Home.
Donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
To sign Helen’s online guest book, visit www.thompsonfuneralhomes.com or to leave a like, comment or share, visit the Thompson Funeral Home and Cremation Care Facebook page.