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Joseph Hawkins Obituary

Joseph Hawkins, an art teacher at Stockbridge Middle School, knew the power of a good tip. But his tip wasn't information. It was currency. Read the news obituary.

Published by Atlanta Journal-Constitution on Nov. 17, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Hawkins

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57 Entries

i never really new mr.hawkins but i heard he is a awsome and nice man thats what my sister said emily head

Anya Head

April 13, 2014

Mr. Hawkins was a great man. Im not sure how he died but he did. He will be truly missed. SMS misses him. He gave me a 100% in art even though im not good with art!!! If Mr. hawkins was alive right now i would give him a great big hug!! THX Mr. hawkins for giving me an art award I WISH YOU THE BEST!!!!!

Emily Head

April 1, 2014

I had Mr.Hawkins for my first term he wasn't my favorite teacher but now that i think about it he was getting on me because he knew what i can do and i thank him for that and SMS miss you R.I.P we love and miss you!! <3

katelyn Oliphant

January 17, 2014

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

irene rev.21:4

December 3, 2013

I am very sorry to hear of your loss. May the God of all comfort, comfort your heart, and I hope the kind words and prayers help you and your family get through this rough period of time.

December 2, 2013

I'm so sorry for your loss. May God's Peace be with you during this difficult period. Jeremiah 29:11

Townsend G

November 30, 2013

I knew Mr.Hawkins... Maybe not too well but he knew me... I would come to his class to always ask about art club meetings... and I remember one day I was walking down the hall and I was crying... and Mr. Hawkins handed me a tissue and said "it can't rain forever"... he hugged me and I will always remember that cause he gave me the strength to move on... many days all because of that one day... I wasn't able to get the chance to be blessed by his class during eighth grade this year at Stockbridge middle school... but I had him three times and he touched my heart... he was sweet and funny and I had no artistic abilities... but at all times he smiled and laughed and got me through art... and I appreciate him for that... my condolences to the family and friends and anyone blessed enough to have been in his presence... my condolences even more for those who never got the chance to make his acquaintance... I love u Mr.Hawkins... and everyone remember JUST KEEP DRAWING

Autumn Lipsey

November 25, 2013

Mr.Hawkins was my art teacher at Wesley Lakes Elementary and he was always my favorite part of the week. I remember him drawing basic shapes on the board but they were always perfect. Always. He told me that nothing was perfect but it could appear that way if you wanted it to. He always had some sort of life lesson he would offer up each time we came in the room. I have few pictures from elementary school but one I still have is the one I took on my last day of 5th grade with Mr.Hawkins; he was one man I did not want to forget. Now that I am off at college my mom had to call and tell me he passed away. I pray for his friends and family because he held such a special place in my heart, I know his passing must be extremely hard for those that were close to him. Know that he will always be dear to me and that he was very much loved by his students -- even those of us from 10+ years ago.

Amber Holmes

November 23, 2013

Dear Janet, Katie, Rory, Family and Friends,
I was writing this letter to Joe while in the hospital. I think he would now want me to share this with you.
" You said only family can be with you now and I get that. So,I decided, since every time I think of you so many happy memories flood into mind. I go to my scrap books and find an abundance of joy. I can't tell you there is a favorite. All my time with you and Janet are my favorite moments.
The years go by but our bond of friendship has been motivation for creating a happy life by sharing love, peace, and art. You and Janet are true blue friends, I am proud to call mine." The unfinished letter.
The circle will be unbroken,
Kristina Weick
Pensacola, FL

November 23, 2013

Joe was a great guy. Those words are usually thrown around, but Joe was a great guy. From what I could see, he stayed the path, was an inspiration to all of those around him, and had an amazing outlook on life. As a fellow art teacher, I strive to be as much like him as possible. He leaves a great legacy and will truly be missed. Lots of love from his feeder school, Smith-Barnes Elementary. Rest in peace, my friend.

Charley Clinkenbeard

November 22, 2013

Joe was a bright point and an inspiration to me in the years of teaching with him at Wesley Lakes. My heart breaks for the family and friends. Know that he has left a positive mark on all who knew him. We're going to go out to eat and will leave a big tip in honor of Joe:) keep him with us in spirit!
Jill Tonelli

Jill Tonelli

November 22, 2013

Katie, my heart goes out to you and your family. I never had the pleasure of meeting your dad,and that is my loss. I always knew that you had to have fantastic parents because you are such a wonderful human being. Rebecca thinks of you as family and I have always been grateful that you two found each other. I am so sorry for your loss.

Stephanie Vitt

November 21, 2013

I am so sorry for your great loss. May the God who is 'comforting those mourning, and binding the brokenhearted' sustain you during this most difficult time. (Isa.61:1,2). Again, my deepest sympathies.

November 21, 2013

Mr Hawkins if you could hear me. my Heart goes out to your family. i was checking my daughters fb page that she haven't been on in some time. wile she is in school and i seen this .my heart is so full you have taught my Daughter how to expand her Art you have her Art hanging in the school hall way. i have always email you and invited you to different art seminars i got her in. because i wanted them to see the Man who help her so much with her art. them Congratulating her was my way of saying Thank You For U and all you have done. MY baby will be so heart Broken and torn apart as i am now.May God keep U to draw your FANTASTIC ART WORK IN HEAVEN. MY LOVE AND MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOUR FAMILY.SUCH A GREAT TEACHER YOU WILL BE MISSED. KEEP QUIDING MY DAUGHTERS HANDS AS SHE DRAWS .BECAUSE SHE WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER YOU.TO HIS FAMILY IF THERE IS ANYTHING ME AND MY DAUGHTER YAUNIQUE HILL CAN HELP YOU ALL WITH PLEASE ASK HE WAS A BIG PART OF MY FAMILY TOO.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL 347.971.2505

TONYA NELSON

November 21, 2013

I have heard nothing but wonderful things about your husband and father from my son, Jerid Morisco. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May God be with you during this time and give all of you the strength, love, and peace you need.

Ann Galloway, Albertville, Al

November 21, 2013

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Rev. 21:3, 4 ~ Kim

November 21, 2013

It can be so hard to face the new year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.

G. Johnaon

November 21, 2013

Janet, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your children.
Gale

Gale Knox

November 21, 2013

It can be so hard to face the new year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.

G. Freeman

November 21, 2013

With deepest sympathy to the Hawkins family during your time of grief...God is for you a refuge and strength, A help that is there to be found during difficult times...May God provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead...(Psalm 62:8).

November 21, 2013

Sorry for your loss. He was loved and touched many lives at Stockbrige Middle School. He will be missed,

November 20, 2013

Sincere condolences go out to the family, friends and others whose lives were touched by Mr. Joseph Hawkins. He was a generous man and a kind soul. May the God of comfort give power beyond what is normal to deal with this loss.

Spencer

November 20, 2013

I am so sorry for your loss. I remember observing in Mr. Hawkin's art classes and what a wonderful teacher he was. Janet, I hope you are doing well in your retirement and that God will comfort you in your loss. Keep in touch. Lynn Mordecai

November 20, 2013

Mr. Hawkins was a great man. I had him all three years of middle school. We both had the same interest in art and books. I came to him two times to help create an anniversary gift for my parents. He had a smile on his face and helped me. He bought me a greek gods book and gave me a Calvin and hobbes book of his. He was a kind man, and a kind soul. He always had a smile on his face and enjoyed what he did. Im glad i was able to have his class. Thank you so much Mr. Hawkins.

Cody Nelms

November 19, 2013

As a social studies teacher and soccer coach at Stockbridge High School from 1999-2006, I was blessed with the opportunity to meet and work with Joe and his wife Janet through their children Katie and Rory, who I taught World History and coached. I can say that I have never met a family who was brighter, kinder, and more pure of heart. I have many fond memories of Joe helping out with field maintenance, concession stand duty, or anything else that needed to be done during soccer season. He was always quick with a kind word and a joke. He was kind and selfless, and you always felt better about the world after having spent time with him. My wife Jody and I send our heartfelt sympathies to Janet, Katie, and Rory - you are in our hearts and prayers...

Rick Corwin

November 19, 2013

Mr. Hawkins was my best friend throughout my middle school years at Stockbridge Middle. I am currently a ninth grade student and he is still my mentor. He has been like family to me and many of his other students. Yes, we had our moments were we didn't want to be in the same room for class but he was brilliant. He was kind and wiser than an owl. He always treated me as if I were someone when I thought I was no one. He is an amazing person and I am so glad I had him as my art teacher. We love and miss you Mr. Hawkins!

Clarissa Ivey

November 19, 2013

I was so sorry to hear of Joe's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours Janet...take care and take comfort in all the lives he touched in a positive way. I will definitely leave a big tip in Joe's memory !!!

Debbie Daub

November 19, 2013

With deepest sympathy to the Hawkins family during your time of grief...God is for you a refuge and strength, A help that is there to be found during difficult times...May God provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead...(Psalm 62:8).

November 19, 2013

I will always remember Mr. Hawkins for his kindness and love for others. His memories are every where at Wesley Lakes Elementary and he painted our office with flowers and trees while he was our art teacher years ago. God has won an angel, I know that in my heart.

Marta Britt

November 19, 2013

Thank you Mr. Joseph Hawkins, for your love of life, and art that you instilled in all of my daughters, and most of their friends. You will be truly remembered and missed so much by so many, faculty, staff, parents, and especially the children. We love you Mr. Hawkins, always.

Rebecca Wichern

November 19, 2013

Sorry about yout. Loss(tev.21:4)

irene

November 19, 2013

It isn't quite often you find a person who cares of other people whom he doesn't know. You may find some hope in psalms 37:11,12. My condolences go out to anyone who was touched by mr. Hawkins.

Jorge Posada

November 18, 2013

Sounds like Mr. Hawkins was the type teacher, husband, father and friend we all should strieve to be. God speed to you.

V Thomas

November 18, 2013

Joe was a cherished friend and a "soul brother." We went through our graduate school together (CMU) where he was a never-ending supporter, collaborator, and all-around fabulous guy! I never would have made it through without him! I also worked with him at APS as an art teacher. He was a unique and inspiring art educator! He was an amazing human being who lived his life to it's fullest at all times. Joe, your warm smile and generous nature will be missed. Farewell my sweet friend. Words can not express my heartfelt condolences to his family.
at this time.

Pat Kerner

November 18, 2013

God blessed your family with a wonderful man. You have some great memories to cherish.

Monti Brewer

November 18, 2013

The world truly needs more people like Joseph. For all the lives he has touched, let his legacy live on through them. Thoughts and prayers are sent to his family.

Sue Tomlinson

November 18, 2013

May God give you peace in this time of sorrow.

November 18, 2013

May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.

November 18, 2013

I did not know Joseph but based on what I have read, I wish I did. May he live on in your memory and in the memory of our creator, maybe one day you will see him again.
p.m.

November 18, 2013

He will truly be missed by his SMS family. I enjoyed being in the presence of his kind spirit and warm smile. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

L Knowlton

November 18, 2013

Mr. Hawkins did so much for my granddaughter's self esteem. We had praised her ability to draw but it was Mr Hawkins that helped her to realize her potential. He is missed greatly. Praying for your family and friends today.

November 18, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

S.Griggs

November 18, 2013

It was a great pleasure to have met and worked with Joe at SMS. He was such a kind man and I know he will be missed by many. May God comfort you now, and may His peace be with you always.

Tamikia Samuels

November 17, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Eg

November 17, 2013

From the first time I met Joe when he joined the SMS family, I knew that he was going to be a wonderful addition to the staff. His smile was infectious and his compassion and caring of staff, students, and community did not go unnoticed. He was so talented and always willing to share those talents with others. His stories about his students and family were filled with such pride. I was so sad to hear about his passing, but believe that his spirit will live on in all of the lives he has touched. Rest peacefully Joe-you will be missed!

Susan Guarnett

November 17, 2013

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

G. Freeman

November 17, 2013

On behalf of the class of 1972 of Leesville High School, our condolences to Joe, his family, colleagues, and students. Most of us lost touch with his present but never our memories of him It sounds as if he continued to live as so many of us remember him and that in his case, the child was indeed father to the man. Keep on truckin', Joe!

LeRoy Lambert

November 17, 2013

God called you home to our regret but to his benefit. It's been so long since our days in Leesville but it sounds you only got better and better with age. God's speed.

Richard Robbins

November 17, 2013

Farewell Joe old friend. God had better be on the lookout for the merry prankster is on his way. From your old classmate at LHS.

Tony McDonald

November 17, 2013

Aloha Joe Hawkins. Sorry I'm only now communicating after you are gone. Too soon as you are only 58 yrs old. I rememer Joe from the 8th grade when we attended Leesville Jr High. Even then Joe was a kind and gentle Man. God Bless and have a wonderful journey my Brother.

Jimmy Mapu

November 17, 2013

You are so missed by so many....rest in peace and may your love ones be comforted in your lasting memories..

Bert Bell

November 17, 2013

I felt fortunate to have Joe in my family and though we were not related by "blood", he treated me with great kindness and affection every time we met.
My first encounter with Joe was in New Orleans where I was fortunate to have him as my tour guide (his occupation at the time). Many tourists have taken carriage tours of New Orleans but I maintain that, with Joe at the helm, I received as informative enlightening, evocative and flat out enjoyable tour of NOLA as has ever been given. He was a great artist and teacher and a kind and generous man. I am lucky to have known him

Mark Graham

November 17, 2013

No words can express what a wonderful, kind man Joe was. He will be missed greatly. No matter how the day was going I could always count on Joe to brighten it. He will always be in our hearts. Love you Joe the Art Guy

Donna Watkins

November 17, 2013

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

P Sharpe ( Isaiah 12:2 )

November 17, 2013

We never met you, but were touched by your charitable legacy and your son. We are sad for them, but glad they had you for as long as they did. Peace.

D Gator

November 17, 2013

WE LOST A GREAT MAN MY PRAYERS GO OUT THE FAMILYS...MR HAWKING WAS A FRIEND AND A CO-WORKERS TO ALL OF US AT SMS FAMILYS R I P MR.JOE

ROBERT WATKINS

November 17, 2013

Mr. Hawkins was an amazing art teacher! I remember the days at Wesley Lakes Elementary with Mr. Hawkins and will cherish those memories forever!
Rest Peacefully Mr. Hawkins
We love and miss you!

Katelinn Parker

November 16, 2013

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