Ronald ‘Keith’ Hawkins

Posted on November 14, 2025

Ronald “Keith” Hawkins, 64, of Perry passed away unexpectedly at home on Nov. 10, 2025.

Keith was born on Dec. 22, 1960, in Port Saint Joe to Walter Lewis and Betty Liner Hawkins, and moved to East Palatka when he was two years old.

He received his machinist certificate from Daytona Beach Community College in 1981, and went on to work at Georgia-Pacific for 30 years in Palatka, Brunswick, Ga., and then retiring in Perry.

He took great pride in his work and was recognized for his dedication and expertise.

Keith was devoted to his faith and his family, and was part of one of the founding families of Christ Independent Methodist Church.

Keith loved spending time outdoors, especially on his tractor; playing golf with his brother, nephews and friends; playing family card games; hunting with his father-in-law; riding in the woods; and air boating with friends.

Family was so important to him. 

A lifelong Gator fan, he proudly cheered on the orange and blue every season – even though it was getting tough this season.

His most important achievement was his daughter, Megan. He was so proud of her, her husband and that he was able to spend time with his two grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Poppie.”

He loved them so.

He is survived by: his loving wife of 41 years, Tresa Stewart Hawkins, Perry; daughter, Megan Michele Raymond, and son-in-law, Mark Stanley Raymond; grandchildren, Thomas Stanley Raymond and Julia Elizabeth Raymond of Sandy Springs, Ga.; brother, Walter Lewis Hawkins Jr.; and sister-in-law, Janel Powell Hawkins of Ocala; father-in-law, Carl Lamar Stewart of Palatka; sister-in-law, Robley S. Davis (Donald); and sister-in-law, Julie S. Reed (George); and many nieces, nephews and extended family members who meant so much to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Lewis and Betty Liner Hawkins of East Palatka and his mother-in-law, Julia Rankin Stewart of Palatka.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. at Christ Independent Methodist Church in Palatka on Saturday, Nov. 15, with the Rev. Michael Hudson officiating. The family will receive visitors beginning at 10 a.m., prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Rodeheaver Boys Ranch or Christ Independent Methodist Church in Keith’s memory.

Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Keith’s Book of Memories page at www.j-ofunerals.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.