Marie Ann Hawkins

Marie Ann Hawkins, a beloved educator, devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished grandmother, passed away on November 25, 2025, at the age of 71. Born on October 1, 1954, in Quakertown, PA, Marie's journey through life was marked by unwavering love for her family, dedication to her profession, and a nurturing spirit that touched everyone she met.

Marie attended Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, where she first met her husband, Randy. She later obtained an associate's degree in Early Childhood Education from Del Mar College in Corpus Christi, Texas, and went on to earn a bachelor's degree from what is now Texas A&M Corpus Christi. Her passion for teaching began with three-year-olds before she welcomed her children into the world, only to return to the classroom during their school years in the early 2000s at First Christian Day School in Corpus Christi. In addition to her time at the day school, she shared her knowledge and expertise as an adjunct faculty member at Del Mar College in early childhood instruction, shaping the next generation of educators with the same care and dedication she showed in her own classroom.

Marie’s life was a tapestry woven with joyful memories and cherished experiences. She was a dedicated and involved parent, whose commitment to her children extended beyond the classroom. As a room mother and active member of the PTA, she volunteered diligently, establishing strong bonds with her children, their friends, and their teachers. Family dinners held a special place in her heart; each weeknight brought loved ones together around the table. She made birthdays and holidays, particularly Christmas and New Year's Eve, joyous occasions filled with celebration and warmth.

Marie was not just a mother but also a grandmother to two sets of twins -- Audrey and Ethan Brown along with Miles and Scarlett Thrasher. Her pride in her grandchildren was immense, and she devoted herself to creating special moments with each of them. Her kind and loving nature made her a friend to everyone who crossed her path. Marie literally "never met a stranger", and her friendly demeanor, selflessness, and big heart influenced many lives, enriching the community with her kindness.

In her leisure time, Marie had a deep passion for exploring thrift stores and antique shops, seeking out garage sales and flea markets in search of unique treasures to sell in her antiques booths. She relished dining at local restaurants (especially those offering southern-style cooking), she loved vacations at Disney World, and she looked forward to road trips with Randy to explore hiking trails offering scenic views of mountains and waterfalls. Even in her quieter moments, whether solving Sudoku puzzles or tending to her collections of antique furniture and decor, Marie's zest for life shone brightly.

Marie is survived by her loving husband of 48 years, Randy Hawkins; daughter Julie Brown and husband Chad; daughter Amy Thrasher and husband Alex; and her cherished grandchildren, Audrey and Ethan Brown along with Miles and Scarlett Thrasher. She is preceded in death by her father, Theodore “Ted” Shields; her mother, Joan Shields; and her brother, Bryan Shields.

As we remember Marie Ann Hawkins, we celebrate her legacy of love. Her life was a beautiful example of how one person’s selflessness can create ripples of joy in the hearts of many. Although she is no longer with us, the warmth of her spirit will continue to shine brightly in all of the lives that she touched.