Farrell Ray Hawkins

In Loving Memory of Farrell Ray Hawkins (August 6, 1937 - March 28, 2024).

Ray Hawkins was a pillar of strength, wisdom, and love, who peacefully passed away on March 28, 2024, at the age of 86. He was born on August 6, 1937, in Torrance, California, to Lenna and Farrell Hawkins. Eldest brother to Larry and Bruce. 

Ray embarked on a life filled with purpose, dedication, and service to his family and the Lord. On August 6, 1962, he joyfully united in marriage with Sharon Weindorf Hawkins in a sacred ceremony at the Logan, Utah Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple.

An esteemed educator, Ray’s passion for knowledge and history illuminated the minds of countless students during his tenure as a Riverview Junior High School history teacher. His impact extended beyond the classroom as he later served with distinction as a Human Resources Director.

Ray was a proud graduate of Murray High School, Class of 1955. Throughout his life, he pursued academic excellence, after completing a bachelor’s and master’s degree at Brigham Young University, he continued to increase his knowledge. He earned a Fulbright Scholarship to Korea in 1966. Later despite being admitted to Harvard for a Ph.D., he chose to pursue his doctoral studies at Columbia University. 

Ray’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He answered the call to serve in the Northern Far East Mission from 1957 to 1960, being assigned as one of the first group to preach the gospel in South Korea, where he shared his beliefs with boundless compassion. Later, he and his wife served as a Mission President to the Korea Seoul mission from 1977 to 1980, guiding and uplifting those under his care. He remained close to all of his missionaries to the very end of his life.

A devoted servant of The Lord, Ray served as a bishop three times. His leadership and compassion were evident during his tenure in the Murray 7th Ward from 1974 to 1977 and again from 1981 to 1986. In 2010, he continued his dedicated service in the Rock Creek Ward in Eagle Mountain, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

In his leisure time, Ray found solace in simple pleasures. He enjoyed fishing, delving into literature, and challenging himself with crossword puzzles. A fervent sports enthusiast, he cherished cheering on BYU Football and engaging in spirited discussions about all sports.

However, Ray’s greatest source of joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, and cherished grandfather. His children, Jennifer (Ryan) Young, Sarah Sawaya, Matthew (Elizabeth) Hawkins, Annie (John) Scott were his pride and joy. His face would clearly show his happiness with every visit.

“Papa”  will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his beloved family, grandchildren, Spencer Ryan Young (Danielle Delano), Benjamin David Young (Michaela Simone), Nathan Ray Young (Cora Wilstead), Jordan Nicole Sawaya (Alec Allred), Taylor Camille Sawaya, Katherine Elizabeth Hawkins, Amelia Ann Hawkins, Juliette Rae Hawkins, and Emma Ray Scott.

Preceded in death by his parents, brother Larry Lee Hawkins. 

A funeral service to honor and celebrate Ray’s life will be held on Thursday, April 4th, at 10:00 AM at the Park 6th Ward, West Jordan Utah Park Stake, located at 7411 S 4800 W, West Jordan, UT 84084. There will be a visiting period beginning at 9:00 AM before the service. Interment will follow at Larkin Sunset Cemetery for family.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to IHC Hospice, especially Pedro Torres, for his compassionate care and support during Ray’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Missionary Fund. Until we meet again, your legacy of love and service will forever live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know you.