Ralph Hawkins

Ralph Edwin Hawkins (70) of Dayton went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on January 10, 2022. His wife and two sons were with him when he passed. He was preceded in death by his sister (Virginia McDonald), his father (Marlowe Hawkins), and his mother (Martha Hawkins). He is survived by his wife of 39 years (Nancy Owen-Hawkins), his son (Braden Hawkins) and Braden's wife (Ashley) and their two children (Henry and Lila) and his son (Nathan Hawkins) and Nathan's wife (Taryn) and their three children (Ethan, Madison, and Parker).

After graduating from Butler High School in 1969, Ralph enlisted and served in the US Air Force as a staff sergeant and worked as an airplane electrician. Upon discharge in 1973, Ralph did several odd jobs until he was hired to do centerless grinding at Specialty Machines, Inc. where he worked for 48 years. He and his family have been members of First Light Church in Vandalia for 31 years. 

Ralph enjoyed hiking, archery, target shooting, photography, boating, flying, going to bible studies, and reading. More than anything else, Ralph enjoyed being a husband, dad, and grandpa. 

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am, Friday, January 14, 2022 at the First Light Church, 140 Elva Court, Vandalia with Pastor David Starry officiating.  Interment with military honors will follow at Poplar Hill Cemetery.  The family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday evening from 5-7 pm at First Light Church.   

Arrangements entrusted to Morton & Whetstone Funeral Home, Vandalia.

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