Crawley Hawkins Obituary

" Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High, will rest in the shelter of the Almighty" Psalm 91:1Crawley Odessa Hawkins transitioned from this earthly life to eternal rest and peace on Wednesday May 3, 2023 at Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia. He was born April 19, 1962 to Ms. Olivia Goodrich and Rev. Lawrence B. Hawkins. Crawley was educated in the Brunswick County Public School system and graduated from Brunswick Senior High School in 1980. Crawley attended Virginia State University, Ettrick Virginia where he was a proud member of the Virginia State University Gospel Choir and graduated with a Bachelors of Science degree in Individualized Studies in 1993. He later earned his Masters Degree in Education in 2002 from Old Dominion University, Norfolk, Virginia. He was also a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc and he was often seen wearing a Kappa shirt or Kappa hat to show his pride for the Brotherhood. While attending Virginia State University, he met the love of his life, Priscilla Reed, who he married June 29, 1991. They were inseparable soulmates who spent quality time together, enjoying life. He called her "Pri" or sometimes "Preamble" and she called him "Crawfish". During this union they had one daughter, Whitney Hawkins who he affectionately called "Pumpkin" or "Wormie". They were a family that enjoyed trips to Williamsburg, guessing the puzzles on Wheel of Fortune, having fun as a family, and going to the movie theater followed by trying out new restaurants. Crawley dedicated his life to educating and inspiring children to be the best that they can be. He began educating in 1993 at St. Paul's Head Start program for 2 years before beginning his teaching career at Red Oak Sturgeon Elementary School in August of 1995. During this time he taught both 5th grade and 6th grade. He was awarded Teacher of the Year for both the County and Brunswick County Public Schools during the 2010-2011 school year. He remained a devoted educator up until his passing. He had a true love for God and was known throughout many local churches for his singing and dynamic voice. He loved to share his love for Christ through ministering through song and testimonies. Crawley would testify to whomever, wherever he went, he loved to tell about the goodness of God. He attended Blooming Zion and Shorts Chapel RZUA Churches in Lawrenceville, VA. He was a member of Mt. Zion RZUA church from 1991 until January 2022. From then he became affiliated with various churches as he continued to travel and share his testimony and love of God through song. Crawley was known for his voice, but many people also knew him as a fashionable dresser. He could spend hours shopping for just the right look or style. He was also a regular shopper at Walmart. He was a devoted fan of Brunswick basketball games as well as Virginia State University Sports, . . . but most of all he was known for his kind and loving spirit. His love for others shone through his bright smile and never ending hugs. Crawley leaves to cherish his memory: his loving and devoted wife of 31 years, Priscilla R. Hawkins, Meredithville, VA, one daughter, Whitney Cherese , Chesterfield VA. , his loving parents father, Rev. Lawrence B. Hawkins and mother, Olivia Goodrich both of Lawrenceville, VA; seven sisters: Sheryl Hawkins , Richmond, VA, Regina Douglas (Harry) ,South Hill, VA. ,Vanessa Hawkins (Andrew), Richmond, VA. , Janice Hawkins ,Richmond, VA. , Jacqueline Alston (Timothy) ,Lawrenceville, VA. , Ava Hill (Lee) , Crewe, VA. ,and LaDelta Williams (Keith) , Youngsville, NC. , four brothers: Percell Hawkins , Richmond, VA. , George Hawkins , Richmond, VA. , Lawrence Hawkins, Cameron, NC (his best friend, confidant and oftentimes handyman) and Paul Hawkins, Anderson, SC. , four sisters- in - law: Maurita Johnson, Alberta, VA. , Charlotte Reed, Kenbridge, VA. , Wandra Reed, Chesterfield, VA. , Lisa Dove, Prince George, VA. , one brother- in - law, Edward Reed of Kenbridge, VA and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends.