Melvin Bruce Hawkins

Melvin Bruce Hawkins, of Mauldin, loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away on Monday, September 7, 2026, at his home, just six days after celebrating his 90th birthday. Born in Greenville County, SC, on September 1, 1936, he was a son of the late Grady and Mary Ferguson Hawkins. He was a veteran of the United States Army. Bruce lived a life defined by hard work, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family. He spent a 36-year career with Stevens Aviation, retiring as the General Manager. When he wasn't working, Bruce enjoyed the camaraderie of his peers at the Cooper Masonic Lodge #282 in Travelers Rest and as a Hejaz Shriner for many years. He was a member of two southern gospel groups, The Southerners Quartet and The Foothill Boys Quartet. Bruce was a member of and enjoyed worshipping with his church family at Airport Baptist Church. Bruce was an avid golfer spending countless hours on the course, shooting his age or better over 800 times since the age of 71. But above all else, he treasured his family. He found his greatest joy in spending time with those he loved, celebrating milestones, sharing stories, and creating memories that will be cherished for generations. Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 68 years, Wilma Turner Hawkins; his son, Curtis Hawkins (Gwyn); three grandchildren, Amy Fulton (Roman and Jensen), Samantha Young (Heath) and Tony Hawkins (Trish); his brothers, Charles Hawkins (Betty), Marvin Hawkins and Jerry Hawkins (Shirley); seven great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 10:50 a.m. at The Howze Mortuary followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. in the Chapel. Burial will be in Clearview Baptist Church Cemetery in Travelers Rest. Memorials may be made to Airport Baptist Church at https://app.easytithe.com/App/Form/56615ea4-39ff-4dfd-bd02-3ebb9188b3af or to Shriners Children’s at https://donate.shrinerschildrens.org/give/716725#!/donation/checkout?c_src=shrinerschildrens&c_src2=ways-to-give. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.thehowzemortuary.com. The Howze Mortuary, Travelers Rest, is assisting the family with arrangements. (864) 834-8051.

Melvin Bruce Hawkins

September 1, 1936 - September 7, 2026