Suddenly on Friday, April 24, 2020, Jay Hawkins, Jr. departed this earthly life. Jay’s light began to shine bright when he was born on March 23, 1995, to Gina Bush and Jay Hawkins, Sr. Over his 25 years, he brought joy and laughter to the lives of countless people. Those who knew Jay intimately recall his charisma, sense of humor, quick wit, bold yet respectful nature, and deep love for his family and friends. Jay relished family gatherings– where food, fellowship, and games abound, and opportunities to hug his numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins overflowed. Jay also built a community of friends who adored him, many whose families knew him for decades. He loved his family so much that he dreamed of creating his own.
Jay’s parents ensured his participation in activities throughout his upbringing, including Cub Scouts, the Junior Usher Board, and Sunday School at St. John CME Church. He bonded with family and friends over video games and watching the NFL, where he rooted for the New England Patriots (despite growing up in a Washington Redskins household). Jay was incredibly talented–playing multiple horn instruments and participating in the Tri-County Orchestra throughout middle and high school. He pursued opportunities for growth by applying and being admitted to the selective Criminal Justice Program at North Point High School, where he was a Maryland Scholar and graduated in 2013. Later, Jay completed coursework at the College of Southern Maryland. He enjoyed his work in Hospitality Services.
Jay is survived by his mother, Gina Bush and father, Jay Hawkins, Sr. (Shantillie); his sisters, Nina Owolabi (Israel), Tia Hawkins-Morris (Jacoby) and Tisa Taylor; grandmothers, Lynn Collins and Arline Hawkins; grandfathers, Claude Browne and Leroy Rogers; great aunts, Beverly Smith (Anthony), Melanie Smallwood (Michael), Jann Murray-Forbes; aunts, LeAnne Taylor, Lynita Hartfield, Angela Eddings (Charles), and Wanda Hawkins; uncles, Justin Collins, Allen Collins (Kenya), Clifton Browne, David Browne (Veronica), and Cameron Hawkins (Trina); and many loving cousins and friends.
Services will be private.
My beloved Nephew! My Jay, my little J and lovingly thought of as Baby Jay. You, dear Nephew have blessed many lives with your warm smile, sincere embraces, calm demeanor and peaceful presence. It hurts very much Jay, that you aren’t here. Yes, I know you are at Peace and in the presence of Love. I ask God our Father to comfort all of us here, that will shed heartfelt tears over your passing. Although I can’t hug you or see You, I have joyful memories of times we shared to reflect on. I always loved when you would call my name, Aunt Lynita and how you looked forward to spending time with your little cousins Christon and Christyana. Your big cousin’s Daniel and Daman will miss you dearly. I’ll finish this note with a greeting…Hi Jay!!! I Love You!