Mrs. Lucille Elaine Hawkins

HAWKINS, Mrs. Lucille E. -Age 95, passed away Saturday, July 19, 2025, at her residence, Family hour 10:30 AM Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Christ the King Catholic Church, 1811 Seymour Ave., with funeral service commencing at 12:00 PM Father Tom Firestone, officiating. Interment Jefferson Memorial Cemetery, 1591 Gadsden Hwy Birmingham, AL 35235. Friends and pallbearers will assemble at the church 10:30 AM Saturday. Mrs. Hawkins may be viewed Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 10:30 AM until time of service. Lucille Horne Hawkins was a woman of distinction, graciousness, and vibrancy. She was deeply loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, she was the fourth of ten children born to William and Annie Horne. From an early age, Lucille demonstrated brilliance, charm, and a deep love for learning. With nearly perfect attendance, she excelled in school and was adored by her peers. At Hooper High School, she was affectionately known as "Chocolate" as she was sweet, dark, and liked by many. Her classmates elected her "Miss Hooper High" and dubbed her "Ten to One," a testament to her grace, popularity, and radiant presence. Lucille pursued higher education at Alabama State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. While there, she met her soulmate, Herbert Hawkins, a graduate of rival school Alabama A&M University. After marrying at the historic AG Gaston Hall in Birmingham, they began their life together in Detroit, Michigan, where they welcomed their beloved daughter, Colette. The Hawkins family later settled in Flint, Michigan, where Lucille would leave an indelible mark on the community through her work in education. A passionate and dedicated educator, Lucille taught in the Flint public school system for over 25 years. She served at Doyle, Oak, and Summerfield elementary schools, where she created spaces filled with love, learning, and high expectations. Her devotion to children was unmatched hosting swim parties and picnics at her home and encouraging every student to believe in their potential. She continued her academic journey through graduate studies at both Michigan State University and the University of Michigan. Beyond the classroom, Lucille was a devout woman of faith and a steadfast community servant. A member of Christ the King Catholic Church for over 60 years, she faithfully served in the Altar Society, various fundraising committees, and received honors for her decades of service. She was also a very faithful and active member of the Knights of Peter Claver Ladies Auxiliary, Father Dukette Court #90 for more than 50 years. Lucille's leadership extended into numerous civic and professional organizations. She was a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Zeta Beta Omega Chapter, where she was initiated in 1976 and participated in countless Boule conferences and Clusters, and she was honored to receive the Laura Jean Thompson Award in 2023. She was also a life member of the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, the NAACP (Flint Chapter), and the St. Cecilia Society of Flint, Michigan. Her connection to the National Multicultural Diversity Institute reflected her passion for inclusion, education, and cultural advocacy. A true globetrotter, Lucille's idea of the perfect vacation always included a cruise. She and Herbert traveled the world together-from England and France to South Africa, Cuba, and beyond. Together, they organized golf trips and tournaments for groups of 40 or more, building lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories across the U.S. and abroad. Even in retirement, Lucille stayed active, bringing joy and color wherever she went. She made regular visits to nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and senior centers often bringing fresh flowers and warm conversation to lift others' spirits. Lucille Elaine Hawkins leaves to cherish her memory: her devoted husband, Herbert Hawkins; her beloved daughter, Colette Hawkins; three sisters-Mrs. Doris Jolly, Ms. Evelyn Horne, and Mrs. Artyce Wynn-all of Birmingham, AL; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. Lucille was preceded in death by her parents, William and Annie Horne; her sisters, Mrs. Eurydice Wooten, Mrs. Irma Simpson, Mrs. Dianne Beatty, Mrs. Mary L. Jones, and Ms. Gloria Horne; and her brother, Mr. Bobby Horne. Lucille Hawkins leaves behind a legacy rooted in elegance, service, education, and family. She was a mother, a wife, a sister, an aunt, a Soror, a mentor, a friend, and a light to so many. Her impact will continue to bloom in the lives she touched and the generations she inspired.