Iona Hawk Braswell

Iona Hawk Braswell December 11, 1932 – October 21, 2025 Our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Iona Hawk Braswell, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior on October 21, 2025, at the age of 92.
Iona was born on December 11, 1932, in Hill City, Kansas, to Walter and Freda Hawk. Her family relocated to Oklahoma when she was a young child, where she later graduated from Choctaw High School.
In 1955, Iona made history by becoming one of the first six women to serve as police officers in the State of Oklahoma, paving the way for generations of women in law enforcement. After marrying the love of her life, Donald Braswell, in 1959, she transitioned to a new role in the court clerk's office, where she served until 1961. Iona was devoted to her family and was always ready to lend a helping hand in times of need. She enjoyed traveling, reading, and spending time with her loved ones. A career and legacy marked by service, she and her fellow pioneering officers were honored with induction into the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Museum and Hall of Fame on December 5, 2010.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Freda Hawk, and her four brothers: Walter, Earl, Donald, and Doyle.
Iona is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Sherry; grandchildren Corjoun (Aaron) and Carly; great-grandchildren Brevin, Britton, and Lindsey; two great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Her legacy of strength, service, and love will live on through the family and lives she touched.