Mike Hawkins

Robert Michael "Mike" Hawkins 

June 29, 1969 – February 14, 2025 

Newberry, South Carolina, lost one of its finest on February 14, 2025, when Lieutenant Robert Michael "Mike" Hawkins hung up his badge one final time. A steadfast protector, a devoted husband, a proud father, and the kind of man who could turn any gathering into a full-fledged event—Mike left behind a legacy woven with laughter, service, and love. 

Born and raised in Newberry, Mike dedicated his life to his hometown, serving as a Lieutenant for the Newberry City Police Department. As the head of the Traffic Division, he kept the streets safe, but his influence extended far beyond a patrol car. He was the heartbeat of the community, showing up for anyone who needed him—be it a lost driver, a kid in need of guidance, or a festival that needed a strong yet friendly presence. If there was an event downtown, you could bet Mike was there, overseeing every detail with his signature mix of professionalism and charm. 

Service was second nature to him, and he poured his heart into organizations like Serve and Connect, Shop with a Cop, Coffee with a Cop, and the Grant Homes Christmas Drive. Whether he was bringing joy to kids during the holidays, sharing wisdom with the Boy Scouts, or simply having a cup of coffee with a stranger, he understood that real change happens in small, meaningful moments. 

But above all, Mike was a family man. He married the love of his life, Allison Longshore Hawkins, together since 1995, and together they built a life full of love, laughter, and the occasional eye-roll-worthy dad joke. Their children—Courtney Sullivan, Evan Hawkins, Brittany Hawkins, and Cameron Hawkins—were his pride and joy, though his grandchildren may have stolen just a little extra piece of his heart. Dainton Byrd, Gunderson Sullivan, Else May Sullivan, and Charleigh Hawkins were the lucky recipients of his bear hugs, his stories, and, if they were extra fortunate, his enthusiastic dance moves. 

A lover of music and B-movies (the cheesier, the better), Mike had a knack for making people laugh. He was the guy who could turn an ordinary moment into a memory, the DJ who could get even the most reluctant guest on the dance floor, and the friend who never let you forget you were valued. Quick-witted, kind-hearted, and always up for an adventure, he was happiest outdoors—hunting, fishing, farming, or just dreaming of spending his days surrounded by his grandkids and his farm animals. 

Newberry will be a little quieter without him, a little less lively, and a whole lot sadder. But if Mike were here, he'd tell us to shake it off, play some classic R&B, and go find a way to make someone smile. Because in the end, that's what he did best. 

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at Wiles Chapel on the campus of Newberry College. The services will be officiated by Rev. Lee Barnett and Rev. Thomas Dudley. Burial with honors rendered by the Police Honor Guard will follow in Trinity United Methodist Church Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at the McSwain-Evans Funeral Home. 

His watch is over, but his legacy will never fade.