Howard Bruce Hawkins (Buddy), a lifelong resident of Leflore County, Mississippi, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on April 9, 2026, at the age of 86.

Born on February 17, 1940, Buddy lived a life defined by hard work, devotion to family, and a quiet, steady faith. He began his career farming the land in Leflore County before transitioning into catfish farming, where he served as an Operations Manager. While working with Tribble Brothers Fish Farms, Buddy was blessed to have a long and meaningful career with the Tribble family, forming lasting relationships along the way. In his later years, he continued his work as Operations Manager for Mid-South Catfish until his retirement. Known for his reliability, leadership, and deep knowledge of his work, Buddy earned the respect of all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

Buddy graduated from Leflore County High School and carried those roots with him throughout his life. He was a man who found joy in simple moments—time spent with family, sharing stories, and enjoying the company of others. His warm smile, quick laugh, and kind presence made everyone around him feel at ease, a reflection of the joy so clearly seen by all who knew him.

Buddy was especially proud of his family's deep connection to Pillow Academy. He was blessed to have both of his children and all five of his grandchildren involved in the school. Buddy and Martha could often be found arriving early to sporting events to support their family, a tradition that continued even with the availability of live streaming. His love for his family and for Pillow Academy was evident to all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Martha Mims Hawkins; his son, Mike Hawkins (Cindy); and his daughter, Brenda Hawkins O'Dell (Mike). He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Brad Hawkins (Claudette) of Greenwood, Tiffany Mothershead (Nathan) of Sardis, Michelle Adams (Will) of Greenwood, Peyton O'Dell (Helen) of Greenwood, and Brantley O'Dell (Mary Kathryn) of Greenwood, along with 10 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his faithful sister, Sybil H. Fulgham (Gary), who checked on him regularly and remained a constant source of care and support.

Buddy was preceded in death by his parents, Howard Nathan Hawkins and Mamie Bruce Hawkins; and by his siblings, Mildred Holliman, Bonnie Logan, Billy Hawkins, Bobbie Robinson, Hulda Shaw, Diana Upchurch, Donald Hawkins, and Michael A. Hawkins.

A visitation will be held at St. John's Methodist Church in Greenwood, Mississippi, on Monday, April 13, at 1:00 p.m., with a memorial service to begin at 2:00 p.m.

Honorary pallbearers will be Brad Hawkins, Peyton O'Dell, Brantley O'Dell, Nathan Mothershead, Will Adams, Richie Fulgham, and Donald Fulgham.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorials be made to St. John's Methodist Church, Pillow Academy, or a charity of the donor's choice.

Buddy will be remembered most for his genuine kindness, his unwavering dedication to those he loved, and the joy he brought to everyday moments. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the lives he touched.