Matthew Thomas Hawkins

Matthew Thomas Hawkins, 39, of Charlotte, N.C., and formerly of Newtown, died July 12. He was born March 19, 1973, in Salem, Ohio, to Francis K. and Jeanne Klemann Hawkins.

Mr Hawkins, a 1991 graduate of Newtown High School, was a homebuilder, teacher, and franchise owner. Although his work spanned several fields and included business and special education, his strongest gifts were his carpentry/house renovation skills and his ability to appreciate the qualities of the people he walked with during his life’s journey. His generosity and unfailing hope in others inspire all who loved him, and his example has been a catalyst towards positive life change for many of us.

Additionally, he used the means that he was given to restore Mother Earth, and loved teaching children to value and protect nature.

Most importantly he was a devoted father. Mr Hawkins was happiest hiking and spending time in nature with his son.

He is survived by his parents; one son, Liam Hawkins of Charlotte; a brother, Andrew Hawkins of Charlotte; two sisters, Jessica Hawkins-Haroon of Boston and Shannon Hawkins-Loudon of Atlanta, Ga.; and his grandmother, Mary Beck of Lakeland, Fla.

A memorial service took place July 17.

Warlick Funeral Home, Lincolnton, N.C., assisted the family.

The Newtown Bee        July 20, 2012