Julius Darwin Hawkins

J. Darwin Hawkins, 77, of Derby, Kansas passed away on March 23, 2016. He was born November 4, 1938 in Oakland, AR. Darwin was a graduate of Russellville High School, attended Arkansas Tech and then received his degree in Mechanical Engineering with emphasis in Aeronautics from Oklahoma State University. He worked as an engineer in the aircraft industry, including LTV Aerospace Corp, Learjet Corp and Boeing. Darwin’s love for building and flying model airplanes, was followed by getting his pilot’s license, and a career in building experimental aircraft, aircraft testing and design. When he retired, he continued building model planes and introduced many others to the hobby. He was known for his infectious sense of humor and his ability to build or fix anything. Darwin is preceded in death by his parents George and Alma (Pierson) Hawkins, and his grandson Garrett Emery Hawkins. Darwin is survived by his wife of 55 years, Wanda (Judkins) Hawkins; sons Jay (Doreen), James and Jerry (Tambra) Hawkins; grandchildren, Ethan, Blake, Chloe and Grant Hawkins; step-grandchildren Chris Nolde, Kaydee Robinson and Brecken Rumsey; great-grandchildren, Michael and Quinn; siblings, Lyle Hawkins of Dardanelle, AR and Marlene Boen of Russellville, AR.; Visitation: Saturday, 5:30 to 8 pm at Smith Family Mortuary, 1415 N. Rock Rd, Derby, KS 67037. Graveside service: 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 29, 2016, Rest Haven Memorial Park Cemetery, Russellville, Arkansas under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service. The time of the celebratory service and meal will be announced at the graveside. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Victory in the Valley, Inc., 3755 E. Douglas, Wichita, KS 67218.