Nelson Hawkins

Nelson Hawkins was born to the late Robert and Birdie Hawkins, Jr. on July 6, 1930 in Pine City, Arkansas. He was affectionately known as “Hawk” to his friends and Spiderman to his grandchildren and family. Nelson was blessed with many gifts and talents. In his early years, he migrated to Chicago, Illinois and started his first business as a Commercial/Residential painter. 

As an Entrepreneur, he successfully launched The Chicago Red Hots in Fort Wayne, Indiana.   He was a steadfast worker and never gave up on his dreams and aspirations. He became a legend by being the first African American to operate a food truck and the first African American to become a vendor in Fort Wayne’s Annual Three Rivers Festival. 

Nelson was debonair, he was charming, dressed impeccable and had “swag”. He captured the love of his life, Pauline Temple in 1976 and together they raised their combined family.  

Nelson was a family man, and thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his sister Georgia. They were the original King and Queen of Comedy. He enjoyed attending the “Hawkins” Family get togethers. With his jovial spirit, he was famous for making everyone laugh with his story telling of his childhood and life events. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gambling and cooking.  In his leisure time, he enjoyed watching western movies and listening to the blues. 

On May 27, 2020, Nelson peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home. His legacy of love will be forever cherished by his daughters, Diane McCoun “Anne”, MaolaHicks, DeAndrea Lynn Temple-Eley, Capriece Farrie, and Lisa Fields;  sons,  Nelson L. Hawkins (Chandra), Xavier Pace,  William Boyd, Carlton Farrie (Andrea) and Dennis Salley;  (38) Grandchildren, (41) Great Grandchildren; sister, Georgia Butler and adopted sister, Reather Winfield; brothers, Roosevelt Hawkins (Odessa) and Robert Hawkins, Jr.; special friends, Al Juan Williams, Lawyer Barnes “LB”, Ralph Cole and a multitude of relatives and lifelong friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Birdie Hawkins, Jr.;  wife, Pauline Temple Hawkins; daughter, Renee Hawkins; grandson, Dwan Gentry; sisters, Pearl Davis, Willie Mae Hendrix, Lannie Menuard, Geneva Morris and Essie Mae Springer and a brother, Ruthers Hawkins.

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