Larry Vaughn Hawkins

April 8, 1950 - September 17, 2025

"If you loved me you would be glad I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I." ~John 14:28~

Larry Vaughn Hawkins, a man like no other, passed away the night of September 17, 2025 in Green Valley, AZ at the age of 75 years old.  He is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years, Laraine Hawkins, who was with him when he passed. Larry was a loving and patient father to his two daughters, Alison Hawkins and Amy Simeone. He was a dedicated and nurturing grandfather to his three grandchildren Leila Simeone, Alaric Redmond and Sega Sissokho. Larry cared for his sons-in-law, Clifton McReynolds and Samba Sissokho as though they were his own.

Larry was born in Buchannon, West Virginia to Doris and Arthur Hawkins. He has one brother,  Scott Hawkins, currently in West Virginia. His Aunt Jan, currently in Florida, was a significant presence in his life right up until the last days. Fondly recalling summers in his youth with his late Grandmother Cutright always made Larry's face light up.

Larry attended high school in Howland, Ohio and worked summers in the steel mill alongside his father. He also became an accomplished hunter and woodsman during these years. After graduation, he moved to Boston, Massachusetts to attend Boston University as an English major on a football, and later, a wrestling scholarship.  He was the first student at BU to be granted a full wrestling scholarship.  Larry continued wrestling in his own state and regional tournaments for many years past college.

Having attained his degree, Larry then taught English in Dedham High School for 34 years. He earned his master's degree in Reading from Suffolk University in Boston and was an esteemed wrestling coach at Dedham High School. During this time, he raised a family and many Brittany spaniel puppies in Franklin, MA. Throughout his life, if he wasn't coaching them, he was attending sporting events for his children and grandchildren, being their biggest fan on the sidelines.

Eventually, he retired with his wife to Green Valley, AZ and lived the rest of his years enjoying a wide variety of activities. He could often be found engaging with art or reading books and magazines, especially about the Southwest. He hiked daily, two of his favorites being Madera Canyon and Mt. Hopkins Road. He was especially proud of climbing to the top of Mt. Wrightson. He spent many hours creating lush gardens in his yard, cooking delicious meals for his kin, and traveling to national parks or other destinations with his family.

Although Larry had many talents and interests, he was above all a family man. The time, energy, and love he gave to his wife, daughters, and grandchildren is his legacy on this Earth. Larry will be remembered as an amazing man who would do anything to help those he loved. He will be missed by all who knew him as he was a witty, intelligent, strong and capable man with a giant heart for others.

"Peace I leave with you. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."

~John 14:27~