Brenda Lu Hawkins

Brenda Lu (Gore) Hawkins, 78, passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, September 25, 2025, at her home in Farmville, Virginia, surrounded by her family.
Born on July 1, 1947, in Jacksonville, Texas, Brenda was the daughter of Hazel (Hertel) Gore and Charles T. Gore. Texas was her home as she grew up and graduated from high school before beginning a life of adventure.

Her first marriage took her overseas to Naples, Italy, where she welcomed her daughter, Michelle, and later to Verona (Vicenza), where her son, Curtis, was born. Upon returning to the United States, Brenda settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where she worked for Sicash Builders/Palms Associates for 30 years-first as a receptionist and later in the accounting department. Never one to sit still, Brenda balanced full-time work, motherhood, side-jobs and social events. Following her first marriage, she pursued higher education and earned her associate's degree from Tidewater Community College.

In the early 1990s, Brenda met Karl F. Hawkins, and with him, she found the love and laughter she had long deserved. They married in 1994, and together they built a life filled with joy, faith, and family.

Brenda is survived by her husband, Karl F. Hawkins; her children, Michelle R. Brown-Parker and Curtis D. Brown II (Jessica Mooney-Brown); her grandchildren, Jordan L. Parker (Rosemarie M. Parker) and Lucas Mooney; and her great-grandson, Theodore P. Parker. She also leaves behind her beloved sisters, Cynthia Rocka (Jack), Jennifer Epperson (Ron), and Debra Krohn (Jack).

Brenda had a remarkable gift for creating beauty and joy in everything she touched and inspiring others to believe in themselves. Whether through crafting, flower arranging, or conversation, she brought warmth and light to those around her. Her faith in God guided her life; she loved unconditionally, gave generously of her time and talents, and lived by the words of Scripture.

Brenda will be remembered for her laughter, her kindness, and her unwavering love for those around her. Her life was a testament to grace, perseverance, and faith - a legacy that will live on in all who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Farmville United Methodist Church, 212 High Street, Farmville, VA, at the corner of High and Randolph Streets. As this is a celebration, please feel free to wear colorful clothing and come prepared to share your favorite memories of Brenda.

Watkins Cooper Lyon Funeral Home in Clarksville, Virginia is extremely proud to serve the Hawkins Family.