Charles Ross Hawkins, affectionately known by many names including “Charley”, “Mr. Charley”, “Pops”, “Hawkshaw”, “Gran”, “Daddy” and "Dad", passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on November 19, 1938, Charles dedicated his life not only to his family but also to his work and community.

Charles had a long and rewarding career with East Texas Saltwater, where he worked for 33 years before his retirement. He held various positions, including Pumper, Preventative Maintenance Technician, Gang Pusher, and Supervisor, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to his profession and earning the respect of his colleagues.

A proud veteran, Charles served in the United States Army and National Guard, embodying the values of dedication and service throughout his life. His hardworking nature and generous spirit were evident to all who knew him. He was a devoted husband to Helen Jane Hawkins, his beloved wife of 61 years, and a loving father to his two children, Charles Patrick Hawkins and Holly Lea Copeland. He found joy in being an exceptional grandfather to Jacob Alexander Dunaway and his wife Janell Ann, Christian Carol Walker and her husband Gerron, and Cameron Patrick Hawkins and his wife Charlotte. Charles also cherished his role as a great-grandfather to Eli Ross Dunaway, Axl Lewis Walker, and Evette Claire Renee Walker.

Charles had a passion for woodworking, spending countless hours in his shop perfecting his craft. He also enjoyed spending time at Lake O' The Pines and other area lakes in his RV, where he made lasting memories with family and friends. An avid sports enthusiast, he relished watching baseball and college sports, and even took the time to coach baseball, imparting his knowledge and love of the game to young athletes.

Charles was a Christian, saved by our Lord and Baptized in 1971.  His proudest accomplishments include being a longtime member of Forest Home Baptist Church, where he served as a Deacon, Chairman of the Deacons and Sunday School Director, nurturing the spiritual growth of his community. Additionally, he took great pride in building his family home, a reflection of his dedication to his loved ones.

Charles is survived by his wife Helen; children Charles Patrick Hawkins and Holly Lea Copeland; grandchildren Jacob Alexander Dunaway and wife Janell Ann, Christian Carol Walker and husband Gerron, Cameron Patrick Hawkins and wife Charlotte; great-grandchildren Eli Ross Dunaway, Axl Lewis Walker, and Evette Claire Renee Walker; nieces Valerie Hawkins and Anne Smith; great niece Lauren Smith and husband Chris; great great niece Ava Smith; great great nephew Emmitt Smith and cousin Lillian Kinney Webb.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Andrew Jackson Hawkins and Gettys Octavia Kinney Hawkins; grandson Collin Ross Hawkins; nephew Andrew Hawkins; and siblings Nelren, Lou, Lois, Wayne, Jack, Billy, and his infant sister.

A Celebration of Life service will be held 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026, at Forest Home Baptist Church, located at 15746 County Road 173 North, Kilgore, TX 75662.

Charles Ross Hawkins leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and hard work that will be cherished by all who had the privilege to know him. His spirit will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends.

Memorials can be made to the Forest Home Baptist Church in honor of Charley.