Stuart Frear Hawkins II

HAMPTON - Frear Hawkins passed away at home on Thursday, September 21 following his courageous battle with a serious health issue. He was born in Newport News, VA on February 22, 1941, but spent most of his life in Hampton. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stuart and Maude Hawkins, infant brother Lawrence Adrian, sisters Lynn H. Gazaniga, and Leslie H. Damasceno. He is survived by his wife Carolyn Haldeman Hawkins, daughter, Jennifer H. Conner and her husband Eric of Virginia Beach, son Stuart F. Hawkins, III of Hampton, sister, Alix H. Fortson of Seattle and several nieces and nephews. Frear was a 1959 graduate of Hampton High School. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Virginia in 1964, and a Bachelor of Laws from UVA in 1967. He began his practice of law in Hampton as an assistant city attorney (1967-71). In 1972, he became partner in the Moore and Hawkins law firm. He was a partner in several Hampton law firms during his career, the last being Hawkins, Burcher & Boester, P.C. In July 2017, he received a certificate of appreciation from the Virginia State Bar commemorating more than 50 years of service to the Commonwealth of Virginia. In addition, he was a Substitute Judge in the Hampton General District Court, a Commissioner in Chancery, for the 8th Judicial District, and a member of the Peninsula Ports Authority of Virginia. (1988-1996) A long-time member of the Hampton Rotary Club, he served as President (1977-8). He was a faithful member of St. John's Episcopal Church. Frear enjoyed racing Hampton One Design sailboats for many years and later became a crew member on a larger ocean going sailboat named "Tramp". A long-time member of the Hampton Yacht Club, he served as a Commodore in 1985 and in 2014 received an Honorary Membership for rendering outstanding service to the Club. He had many friends, but especially enjoyed playing a game of golf while verbally sparring with his companions. Frear Hawkins loved God, his family, friends, the practice of Law, and the city of Hampton. Throughout his life, he shared his gifts of intellect and integrity willingly. He was an honorable man who will be missed greatly by all who knew him. Visitation will be held at R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home on Armistead Ave. Hampton from 5 to 7 on Sunday, September 24. A graveside service will be held Monday, 11:00 a.m. at Saint John's Episcopal Church cemetery, Hampton with the Reverend Samantha Vincent- Alexander officiating.