David Hawkes

James “David” Hawkes, who went by “David,” was born on June 16, 1948. He passed away leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, service, hard work, and devotion to his family.

Originally from the Colbert, Georgia area and later making his home in Austell, he then retired to Conyers where he spent the remainder of his days. David proudly served his country in the United States Army and was a Vietnam veteran. After his military service, he went on to build a career with Fulton County, where he worked for many years before retiring.

David married his wife, Melba in 1970 and together they built a life and raised two daughters; Kristi and Lisa. Being a father was one of the greatest and most important parts of David’s life, and he was incredibly proud of the women his daughters became.

Some of the family’s fondest memories of David were made around a softball field. He loved the game and spent countless hours coaching his daughters as they grew up. His love for softball continued beyond coaching, and he also spent time behind the plate as an umpire. Whether he was coaching from the dugout or calling the game, David simply loved being around the ball field. David also had a passion for cars. He enjoyed finding cars, fixing them up, and selling them. He loved working with his hands and taking something that needed a little attention and making it better.

But anyone who truly knew David will remember much more than the things he did. He was funny and loved bringing light to any room. He enjoyed making people laugh and could bring humor into just about any situation. He could also be stubborn—and those who loved him knew there wasn’t much use trying to change his mind once he had made it up. But underneath that stubborn streak was an incredibly kind heart. David was the kind of man who would help someone when they were in a bind. If someone needed a hand, he was there. He believed in helping people, working hard, taking care of his family, and being there when it mattered.

He is preceded in death by both his parents; Sherman Buford Sr and Gladys Hawkes. He is survived by his wife Melba Lester Hawkes; his two daughters, Kristi Bonilla (Felix Bonilla) and Lisa Keith (Charles Keith); six grandchildren; Sydney Watts (Kameron Watts), William Johnson, Logan Shelton, Jaxson Bonilla, Saylor Keith, and Brantley Keith and one great-grandchild, Jett Watts, with another great-grandchild on the way, Emersyn Watts. He is also survived by his five siblings, Betty DuVall, Sherman Hawkes (Carolyn), Effie Jones (Clifford), Thomas Hawkes (Mary), and Billy Ray. And countless nieces and nephews. Watching his family grow through the generations brought David tremendous pride and happiness.

David leaves behind much more than a list of accomplishments. He leaves behind the family he loved, the people he helped, countless memories from the softball field, probably more than a few stories about cars, and plenty of funny stories that his family and friends will continue telling for years to come.

He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, veteran, coach, umpire, and friend. He was hardworking, funny, stubborn, kind, and always willing to lend a hand. David will be deeply missed, but the laughter, lessons, stories, and love he gave his family will remain with them forever. 

Funeral services will be held on Friday, September 4, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Lord and Stephens, Danielsville. Interment will follow at Colbert City Cemetery. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 12:00 pm at the funeral home.

Lord and Stephens, Danielsville is in charge of arrangements.