Rita Irvin Hawkins

Rita Elaine Irvin Hawkins, age 75, of Cleveland, passed away on Thursday, November 7, 2024. Known by many as Mrs. Hawkins, to some, Rita, and a special few as Mom and Meme, Rita joined her sister in Heaven on Wednesday, November 6th, 2024. Rita was born to Tarris Dood and Irma Jeane Irvin and raised in the Leaf Community of Cleveland, Georgia. She graduated from White County High School as class valedictorian in 1967 and completed her degrees at Truett McConnell and Piedmont College. She also earned her master’s degree in teaching at North Georgia College in Dahlonega. Rita was married to Joseph Hawkins for over 50 years. Rita and Joe had a daughter, Courtney Jo Hawkins Thomas, (Sean Thomas), and was a Meme to Courtney’s two daughters, Molly Jo and Sadie Rae. Teaching was Rita’s passion for over thirty years in East Hall, Dawson County, Banks County, and after retirement, Pioneer RESA and Mountain Education Charter High School. After retiring from teaching publicly, Rita continued to teach by tutoring her family members and teaching Meme’s preschool. Rita lived her life as a loyal companion, an intelligent mentor, and a strong spirit to all. A private celebration of life will be held on Sunday, November 10th, 2024. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Instead of flowers, Rita requested donations be sent to Get Real Ministries P.O. Box 293 in Baldwin, Ga. 30511. To share a memory or to leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.barrettfh.com. Barrett Funeral Home of Cleveland