Jay Benton Hawkes JR.'s Obituary
Jay Benton Hawkes Jr., beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed from this life on June 21st, 2025. He was born on November 27th, 1950, in Leesville, Louisiana to Jay B. Hawkes Sr. and Laura Thomas Hawkes. Growing up in Rosepine, Louisiana, he graduated from Rosepine High School and went on to receive a bachelor's degree from Northwestern State University. Jay retired from Fort Polk military base after working 20 years as an IT technician and also spent 18 years as a bus driver for the Rosepine school system.
Jay married the love of his life, Regina Reid Hawkes, on September 20th, 1981, where he was a devoted husband for 43 years. Jay and Regina went on to have two children, and two grandchildren whom he enjoyed spending time with. Jay also enjoyed digging for arrow heads, being in nature, working on his computer, and playing with his grandsons. He was often seen out in the field on his tractor, and he loved working in his garden. Most of all, Jay loved Jesus and dedicated his life to serving the Lord. He will be dearly missed by all who had the honor of knowing him. His legacy of love and dedication will continue to live on in those he leaves behind.
Jay is survived by his wife Regina (Jeannie) Reid Hawkes of Rosepine, LA; one son, Jay (Trey) B. Hawkes III and his wife Hannah Hawkes of Rosepine; one daughter, Ashlee Hawkes of Rosepine, LA; two grandsons, Jay Benton Hawkes IV and Judah Hawkes of Rosepine, LA; and one sister, Sylvia (Tim) Smith. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and very close friends whom he loved dearly.
He is preceded in death by his father, Jay B. Hawkes Sr; his mother, Laura Thomas Hawkes; and two sisters, Dorene Shirley and Marilyn Tate.
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