Marilyn Hawkins

     Marilyn Hawkins passed away at Hillcrest Nursing Home in McCook on November 5, 2025, at the age of 89. She was born to Frederick and Lettie (Mason) Brust on August 5, 1936, in McCook. Marilyn was known for her profound love for animals and the support of local history.

     Marilyn’s early education began at Haigler Grade School, and she later graduated from McCook High School in 1954. Following her graduation, Marilyn served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1957 as a medical specialist, a testament to her commitment to service and her strong character. While serving her country, Marilyn met the love of her life, John J Hawkins; they were united in marriage on July 5, 1957 in Okinawa, Japan.

     Marilyn and her family made homes in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Washington DC, and Landover Hills, Maryland prior to putting down roots in McCook in 1979. Marilyn served as the Curator of the High Plains Museum in McCook, where she worked from the 1980s until her retirement in 2020. Her passion for history and culture shone through her work, and she played a vital role in preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of the region. As a founding member of the McCook Humane Society, Marilyn dedicated herself to animal welfare and helped make a significant impact on the lives of countless animals and their caretakers in the area.

     An avid reader and a devoted cat lover, Marilyn found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She also volunteered for Meals on Wheels, sharing her kindness and compassion with those in need. Marilyn's warm heart and generous spirit touched many lives in her community.

     Marilyn was preceded in death by her grandparents, Rev. James and Susan (Taylor) Mason and Phillip and Leasettie (Smith) Brust; her parents, Frederick and Lettie (Mason) Brust; her sister, Shirley Brust; and her husband, John J, Hawkins.

     She is survived by her children: John P. Hawkins of McCook, James T. Hawkins and wife, Elizabeth of San Marcos, California, Steven D. Hawkins and wife, Judy of Green Bay, Wisconsin, and Cheryl Ann Hawkins of Omaha, Nebraska; grandchildren: Andrew Hawkins and wife, Katie, Emily Hawkins and husband, Nick, and Crystal Hawkins; and great-grandchildren: Ivan, Ellie, Jack, and Millie. Marilyn will be lovingly remembered by her family and friends as a caring mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

Marilyn's family thanks the staff at Hillcrest Nursing Home for their skilled care, open hearts, and never-ending kindness.

     Memorial services are scheduled for 11:00 AM on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 at Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel in, McCook. Burial with Military Honors in Memorial Park Cemetery of McCook will follow services. Marilyn's legacy will continue through the many lives she has enriched and the community she has cherished.

     Memorials in Marilyns name are suggested to the McCook Humane Society, the Museum of the High Plains in McCook, or to the Hillcrest Nursing Home Foundation. Online condolences may be left at herrmannfh.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to Herrmann-Jones Funeral Chapel of McCook.