Bessie Hawkins

Bessie Hawkins, 93 of Owenton, KY, passed away on May 24, 2012. Bessie was born February 20, 1919 to William and Edna Campbell. She received her B.S. degree from the University of Kentucky and while there met her husband, O.D. Hawkins, then known as Tony. They were happily married for 64 years. Bessie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and sisters, Marie Campbell, Edna Mae Sharp and Amy Francis Campbell. Surviving are her son and daughter in law David and Patty Hawkins of Chesapeake, VA and grandsons Stuart and Ben and his lovely wife, Rachael and her sister, Ann Delaney of Falmouth. Bessie and O.D. became a vital part of the Owenton and Owen County Communities giving both financially and of their time to the causes and people they loved. She taught high school home economics and elementary school for many years. Among her happiest moments were when she was approached by former students. Together they contributed to Campbellsville College where a beautiful athletic building is named in their honor. Bessie belonged to the First Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School for many years and loved her church community. Both Bessie and O.D. were representatives of the Owen County Red cross and were able to assist hundreds of families and individuals in need. She was a member of the Gideon’s, Retired teachers Association and the Homemakers Club. In 1985 she was selected as Owen Countian of the Year and also received the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Kentucky College of Education. For many years she served as one of the directors for the Kentucky Farm Bureau. The family wants to give special thanks to Bessie’s niece, Pam Chappell for always being available; long term caregiver and friend, Catherine Webster and caregivers and friends, Sue Chisholm, Myra Duvall and Colleen Thomas. Those wonderful friends allowed Bessie to live out her wish to remain at home almost to the time of her death. Special thanks are also given to the staff of Gallatin Healthcare who made her last few weeks as comfortable as possible. McDonald & New Funeral Homes are in charge of arrangements. Family will receive friends at the Seminary Street location on Monday, May 28th from 4-8pm. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 29th at 11am with Bro. Brad Banks presiding. Burial will be in the Owenton Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Owenton First Baptist Church.