Heyward Allen Hawkins jr

In Loving Memory of Heyward Allen “Buddy” Hawkins, Jr. Heyward Allen “Buddy” Hawkins, Jr., passed away peacefully at his home in Marietta, Georgia, on December 14, 2025. He was born on July 7, 1953, in Athens, Georgia, and lived a life defined by devotion to family, loyalty to friends, pride in his work, and a deep love of music, sports, and service to others. Buddy was preceded in death by his parents, Carolyn Smith Hawkins and Heyward Allen Hawkins, and by his sisters, Carolyn Patrice Hawkins and Vivian Loren Sexauer, all of whom he loved dearly and carried with him throughout his life. A graduate of Lakeside High School in 1971, Buddy went on to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology, earning a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Management in 1975. During his college years, he demonstrated his calm strength and compassion by serving as a paramedic with Metro Ambulance Service—helping others while working toward his future. After graduation, Buddy joined his father at Hawkins & Associates, originally a manufacturers’ representative firm for wholesale plumbing supplies. Through Buddy’s leadership, vision, and tireless work ethic, the company evolved into the highly technical world of chemical metering pumps and water treatment systems. By expanding representation to include controllers, tanks, pumps, and accessories, Buddy led Hawkins & Associates into a period of extraordinary long-term growth and success. In 2016, he sold the company he had helped build, remaining on as a consultant during its first year under new ownership—ever steady, ever supportive, and proud of the legacy he created. Buddy shared 39 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Nan Perry Hawkins. He is survived by his only son, Heyward Allen Hawkins III; his daughter-in-law, Meghann Jade Ferguson Hawkins; and his treasured grandchildren, Aeribelle Allyn Hawkins and Rylan Cole Dale, who were a constant source of joy and pride in his life. Brotherhood and faith were important to Buddy. He was a member of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity at Georgia Tech and maintained close bonds with his fraternity brothers until the very end. Raised in the Baptist church, Buddy later became a confirmed Episcopalian. When his son participated in the Boy Scouts of America, Buddy gave his time generously as Assistant Scoutmaster for Troop 797, guiding young people with patience, encouragement, and integrity. Buddy’s passions were as vibrant as his personality. He was an avid collector of 45-inch vinyl records, especially 1960s and 1970s soul, rhythm and blues, and Carolina beach music. A gifted DJ, he brought people together through music at Atlanta favorites like The Beer Mug and Charlie Magruder’s, as well as countless private gatherings. He also enjoyed officiating baseball and football games and was a devoted fan of the Atlanta Braves and Georgia Tech football—faithfully following his teams and never missing a game. Buddy will be remembered for his warmth, his sharp sense of humor, his steady leadership, and the way he made people feel welcomed and valued. His life was one of purpose, passion, and love, and his influence will continue to be felt by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Georgia Institute of Technology in memory of Buddy—a tribute to a man whose education, loyalty, and lifelong pride in Georgia Tech shaped so much of who he was.

Heyward Allen Hawkins jr

July 7, 1953 - December 14, 2025