James William Hawkins, son of the late Lottie H. Brooks and Linwood Copper, was born November 13, 1939 in Easton, Maryland. He departed his earthly life on June 19, 2017.

He was schooled in the Philadelphia and Talbot County school district, graduating from Moton High School. He began his life journey in the United States Army. During his service, James received numerous honors, medals and awards, including: the National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, two Bronze Star Medals, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation Badge and the Meritorious Service Medal, among the many. After retiring with an Honorable Discharge as a First Sergeant, James began working for the South Carolina Women’s Detention Center and later for Richland County School District One. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 77, Easton, Maryland. James was a dedicated member of First Nazareth Baptist Church, where he served on the Culinary Ministry.

In 1976, James caught the eye of a cute, southern girl, Deborah Reed. They were married and spent many happy years together. James referred to his firstborn, Curtis, as “My Boy” and his daughter, Xieamadia, was “His Baby Girl”.

In addition to his parents, James was predeceased by his stepfather, Andrew Brooks, and brothers: Lamont S. Brooks, Andrew Brooks, Jr., Harry Copper, Wayne Copper and David Copper.

James leaves to cherish precious memories: his loving wife, Deborah D. Hawkins; daughter, Xieamadia Hawkins; sons: Curtis D. Bordley, Gregory (Cora) and Christopher Harrison; grandchildren: Kysheia Anderson, Curtis Bordley, Jr., Deandre Flamer, Curtez Neeley, Collyer and Noah Harrison, and seven great-grandchildren; his brothers: Ralph Hawkins (Odette) of Camp Springs, Maryland, Norman, Calvin, Larry (Maxine), Adam (Megan) and Alvin Copper; and sisters: Rose Weems of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Doris Collins (Melvin), Doris Brooks, Dorothy M. Dawkins, Marjorie Wyatt, Diane Lewis (Marley), Margaret A. Lewis, Renae Lewis and Diane Campbell. He also leaves to mourn his passing and cherish special times: two uncles, Walter Copper and Elmer Dobson; brother-in-law, Seabrook Reed (Sharrell); sisters-in-law, Carolyn King and Shirley Reed; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving relatives and friends.