James F. Hawkins Iii

James Franklin Hawkins III, as known as “Bubby,” was born on October 22, 1964, in Chestertown, MD, to the late James and Claudette Hawkins Jr. He was the only son of five children. James was raised in Grays Inn, MD, surrounded by a loving family. James, a firm believer in God, a dedicated husband, a loving father and grandfather, a caring brother, and a devoted friend, departed this earth on January 14, 2025.

In 1982, James graduated from Kent County High School, where he excelled as a champion wrestler under the guidance of his surrogate father, Mr. Dan Zottarelli. He was also an exceptional drummer for his high school’s marching band. As a child, James stood out as an extraordinary baseball player for the Rock Hall Little League.

After attending Delaware State University, James developed and dedicated his professional career to serving individuals with mental and developmental disabilities. Since high school, James has been committed to improving individual lives. Therefore, he started working at the Easter Seals Camp in Fairlee, MD., then the Angel’s Haven in Chestertown, MD. For the past 32 years, James has worked as the Vocational Director at the Harford Belair Mental Health Community Center in Baltimore, MD.

In 1995, James married the love of his life, Renee McLaurin. Together, they raised three beautiful children: Rekeia, Keith (who preceded him in death) and his heart and baby girl, Jasmine. He was also a doting grandfather to their grandkids, whom he completely adored.

James and Renee lived life to the fullest, creating memorable moments, all while exploring the world together with family and friends.  They loved to entertain, and when you visit them, you could catch James either on the grill, cleaning up, serving anyone and everyone, or simply being James, a.k.a. the “hostess with the mostest.”  However you put it, you felt James’ love.  As a loyal lifelong Washington (Redskins) Commanders fan, you could always find James in Redskin/Commander attire.  Each year, James looked forward to the Commanders vs the Ravens games for a little friendly trash-talking.

With his great sense of humor, James loved telling amusing stories about growing up with his family and friends on the Eastern Shore and hilarious vacation stories, all while painting a vivid picture. James had the biggest heart like no other. He was constantly willing to help without being asked; he forever remembered how others had helped him and continuously paid it forward to anyone in need.

James is survived by his wife Renee; daughters Jasmine (Piece) White and Rekeia Lovelace; one son who preceded him in death, Keith (Chatiera) Lovelace; grandchildren Ashanti, Kayla, Ayden, Mariah, and Mia; and four sisters, Priscilla, Lisa, and Mildred Hawkins (Kenneth Smith) and Melinda Myricks (Arthur). He will be greatly missed by his brothers Lamont Wicks, Lamont Wilson, Darren Jones, Charles Scott, Giovanni, and James Rochester, as well as three aunts, Martina Jeff, Virginia Wilson, and Norma Lee Hawkins, and two uncles, Robert and Tyrone Hawkins, and a host of family and friends who adored him.

Although James is no longer with us, he will live in our hearts forever. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives he touched.