Benjamin Craig Hawkins

Benjamin Craig Hawkins, 44, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, October 21, 2016. Ben was a lifelong resident of Kingsport and of the Baptist faith. At the age of 3, he knew he wanted to be a fireman. He started serving the Sullivan West Volunteer Fire Department at the age of 15 and he became a lifetime member, later becoming an EMT/1st Responder. He was employed as a Lieutenant for the Eastman Fire Department. He recently became certified in Advanced EMT. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was most proud of his service to his country. He fought in Desert Shield, Desert Storm (1st Infantry Division), and later with the 278th Armored Calvary Regiment, Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was a Sargeant and received many medals and commendations. Ben was a loving son, brother and a devoted husband and father. He was a loyal friend to many. He is survived by his wife, Jackie Hawkins; daughters, Cheyenne and Cassidy; parents, Mars E. and Genola (Fletcher) Hawkins; sister, Angela Hawkins and boyfriend, Trevor; best friend, Chris (and son Caleb) Raines; and several aunts, uncles, cousins. Visitation will be on Tuesday, October 25, 2016 from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (1221 Stewball Circle, Kingsport, TN). Graveside with military honors will follow at 2:30 PM at Mountain Home National Cemetery with pastor Barry Carr officiating. Military honors to be provided by American Legion Post 3/265 Honor Guard. The family requests all flowers, cards, and contributions be sent to the funeral home for them to receive. Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to be serving the family.