Michael was born October 22, 1943, to Augustus and Mildred Neely Hawkins in Jackson, Mississippi. For 39 years, he was a dedicated employee at Entergy. He was a very active member of Macedonia Baptist Church where he served for many years as Sunday School Director. He loved God and enjoyed serving Him with his church family; working in any position in which he was needed. Michael was a man of many hobbies and interests. He appreciated antiques, old cars, and art, and researching guns and knives. He also enjoyed deer hunting. Michael enjoyed traveling with his wife, family, and friends whether it was following the circus, cruising, or trips to the family cabin in the mountains. He enjoyed being a part of the 100-member Greater Jackson Knife and Fork Club where he was currently serving as president. He enjoyed golfing with his buddies at the Louisville Country Club golf course. Michael enjoyed life and was always full of joy. He was always trying to make people laugh and brighten their day. He answered the call of his country by serving for six years in the Air National Guard.
Michael is survived by his wife of 45 years, Shirley Holdiness Hawkins of Louisville; sons John White and wife Jan of Louisville; and Chris Hawkins of Brandon, Mississippi; and foster daughter Angie Lancaster and husband Ken of Birmingham, Alabama. One of his greatest joys was being “Pappaw Michael” to his grandchildren: Kylie Hawkins, Justin White (Keisha); and Jessica White; as well as his six great-grandchildren: Carter and Waylon White; Eli, Vanessa, and Nixie Fulton; and Ian Lancaster. He also leaves behind to mourn his passing numerous family members, nieces, nephews and friends. Michael was preceded in death by his parents; and two infant brothers.
Serving as pallbearers will be Billy Bethany, Tom Bush, Ray Ingram, Butch Luke, James Russell and Mike Todd. Memorial contributions in honor of Michael may be given to Macedonia Baptist Church, 5070 Highway 397, Louisville, MS 39339 or to Good Hope Cemetery Fund.
The family would like to express their appreciation for the loving care provided by the staff of the 5 South Floor at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. The family would also like to express their gratitude to Mississippi Blood Services and to all who participated in the recent blood drives for Michael where more than 160 units of blood were collected in his name.
Services are under the direction of Nowell-Massey Funeral Home, 724 North Columbus Avenue, Louisville, MS. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family by signing the guest register at www.nowellmasseyfuneralhome.com.
