Robert Hawkins

“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you, I go to prepare a place for you.”—John 14:2 KJV On February 21, 2023, Robert “LiL’ Willie” Hawkins transitioned from his earthly abode to his Father’s house of many mansions. He was born February 4, 1949, in New Orleans, LA and accepted Christ at an early age. Robert was the second child born to the late William Hawkins and Ora Lee Young-Hawkins. Robert began his education in the Orleans Parish public school system; however, a GED (General Educational Development) Diploma was earned while in the Job Corp, a nationwide residential career training program. During these young years, he enjoyed listening to music and dancing. As he matured, his past time included reading a good book, monitoring local and national news, and watching old westerns on television. Preceding Robert in transition were his parents, William Hawkins and Ora Lee Young Hawkins, sisters: Aralean Delores Hawkins Porter, Ruby Nelson, son, Glynn Petit, and grandson, Kash Hawkins. Robert served his country in the United State Army from 1966 until 1970. While serving his country, Robert traveled these United States and several countries abroad, including being stationed in South Korea and Germany. After receiving an honorable discharge, Robert returned home and began working at the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. Employment in law enforcement served as the catalyst for attending Delgado Community College in Louisiana, where he completed curriculum studies in Criminal Justice. Meeting “the apple of his eye”, they shared the same birthdate, February 4, 1949, and Robert believed their acquaintance to be a match made in heaven. Miss. Joanne Petit and Robert’s love and admiration, evolved into marriage on May 10, 1975. Three adorable children shared this family dynamic: Glynn, Glinda, and Robin. After the girls completed their high school education, Robert and Joanne matriculated first to Gary, Indiana and then to Chicago, Illinois. They resided in Chicago for 14 years until his demise. He will be remembered for his ability to listen, to exhibit patience, to share wisdom, and his chef-like talent in preparing New Orleans style meals for the love of his life. He is survived by his wife: Joanne Petit Hawkins; two daughters: Glinda (Ray Wayne) Cravin, Robin Hawkins; brother: Charles A. (Frances) Hawkins and Sister: Claudette Drummer-Stepp; sister In-law: Elisa C Williams; Grandchildren: Robert Louis Elijah Hawkins, Roylenn I. Hawkins, Rodnesha J. Hawkins, Robernique Hawkins, Glynn P. Hawkins, and Dominique Glennissia Dixon; great grandchildren: Cimon Joseph, Ronjay Estem, Robyn Jahon Hawkins, Raj Benjamin Hawkins, Elian Santiago Hawkins, Jeremiah Hawkins, Corion Brown, Ariel Hawkins, Terrance Hartley, Roylenn P. Hawkins, Gmori Kash Reed, Dominel Trainor and Ona Rowe. Nieces: Katrina Porter, Gilda Ceaser, Angela (Ceaser) Perry, Tameshea L. Hawkins-Celestine and a host of grand nieces, nephews, brothers, and sister in- laws, extended family, and friends. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend his Funeral Service at D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Avenue on Wednesday, March 8, 2023 at 10:00 am. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am with livestreaming set to begin at 9:50 am by visiting www.facebook.com/D.W.RhodesFuneralHome/live. Everyone in attendance must wear a mask. Interment: Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, Slidell, LA. Arrangements by D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, New Orleans, LA. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the guestbook.