Gerald Hawkins

Gerald Hawkins, age 72, of DuQuoin, IL, passed away on Wednesday, September 30, 2015 in his home.

Jerry was born on September 20, 1943 in DuQuoin, IL, a son to Enos and Patricia (Elledge) Hawkins. The family moved to Sparta, IL after Enos returned from serving in World War II and Jerry attended schools in Sparta, graduating in 1961. After high school, he served 3 years in the United States Army Reserves. On November 9, 1963, he married Ruth Heard of Pinckneyville, IL and she survives. He worked at Benson's Men's Store, Sparta, IL and then for Prudential Insurance before going to work in the coal mines. In 1974, he became the COMPAC director for District 12 of the United Mine Workers of America and held that position until his retirement in 1992. He was a State Representative from 1992-1994. He later worked at Chip Banks Chevrolet, DuQuoin, IL. Jerry served as a Perry County Commissioner during the 1980's, had been chairman of the 708 Mental Health Board, served on the Perry County Housing Authority Board and on the board of the DuQuoin State Bank.

Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Ruth Hawkins of DuQuoin, IL; two children, Jon (Amorette) Hawkins of Rangely, CO and Jane (John) Lysell of Jackson, MO; four grandchildren, Olivia, Calvin and Grace Lysell and Lauren (Cody) Crowden, all of Jackson, MO; two great-grandchildren, August and Adilyn Crowden of Jackson, MO; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Mary Gwen Falkenhein.

A memorial services will be held at Pyatt Funeral Home, Pinckneyville, IL on Saturday, October 3, 2015 at 4:00 p.m. with Reverend Gary Darnell officiating.

Friends may call at Pyatt Funeral Home, Pinckneyville, IL on Saturday from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to Perry-Jackson Child Advocacy Center or the Perry County Counseling Center.

For more information or to sign an online guest register please visit www.pyattfuneralhome.com.