Paul F. Hawkins

Paul F. Hawkins, 90, of Maryville, passed away 11-06-21.
Paul was born and raised in Tallmadge, Ohio to parents Paul E. and Esther Hawkins. After graduation from Tallmadge High School, he worked at Timken Roller Bearing until inducted into the Army. Paul served proudly in the U.S. Army, 32nd Infantry, during the Korean War where he earned 2 Bronze Service Stars.
He was preceded in death by his wife Norma in 2013. He is survived by his brother Chuck (Diana) and, his children, David Hawkins, Debbie Cooksey, Laura Ford (Art), Beth Hawkins, Rick French, Pattie French, and Cathie French-Tritel (Mike). He has 7 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.
After his military service, his natural mechanical ability combined with an inquisitive, problem-solving mindset led him to a position in the development lab of a leading industrial pneumatic/hydraulic manufacturer. A few years later he transitioned into sales which took him from Akron, OH to Louisville, KY to Pittsburgh, PA to Tampa, FL.
After his successful career in hydraulic sales, Paul retired to Maryville, TN in 1995. He then turned his focus to tutoring adults in Math to prepare them for their GED. In 2002, he was voted Blount County Literacy Council Volunteer of the Year. In 2005, he was voted Tennessee’s Education Volunteer of the Year.
Paul had a love for photography and birds. He built a dark room with a complete photo lab for developing and delighted in producing everyday 4x6 to large 18x24 prints for family and friends. In Maryville, he was known as “Mr. Bluebird.” He set up and took care of bluebird boxes at Blount County Public Library, Morningview Village, and many friends homes. In addition, he gave many “talks” and presentations to various clubs, churches, and nursing homes around the County.
Paul was a member of Smokey Mountain United Methodist Church. The family will receive friends 4:00-6:00 PM Thursday, November 11, 2021, from at McCammon-Ammons-Click Funeral Home, 220 W. Broadway Avenue, Maryville, TN 37801.
Funeral and burial will be held 1:00 PM Friday. November 12, 2021, at Grandview Cemetery, 2304 Tuckaleechee Pike, Maryville, TN 37803.