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Brian James Hawkins

Brian James Hawkins obituary, Mansfield, MA

Brian Hawkins Obituary

Brian James Hawkins passed away peacefully at home on October 12. He was born in Evansville, Indiana on May 29, 1946. He is remembered for his love for his family and his dogs.

He leaves behind his wife, Ellen, of 55 years. He was predeceased by his daughter, Jessica, in 2005. He counted his blessings with his two sons and their families: Jared and Erin of Westwood, and his grandchildren Owen (10) and Aria (9); and Jason and Anna of Sydney, Australia, and his grandsons Rocky (15) and Sidney (12). He also leaves his sister-in-law, Sue Wiener of Greenwood, SC, and his brother and sister-in-law, Hesh and Gail Kagan of Foxboro, MA. He also leaves behind nieces and nephews Beth Israel, Debra Commesso, and Gerry Kagan.

Brian grew up on Long Island, NY. He graduated from Stony Brook University and Hofstra University with degrees in psychology and education. Brian was a Special Education teacher for Eastern Suffolk BOCES in Patchogue, NY. He and Elly retired at 55 and moved to New Hampshire for 21 years prior to moving to Massachusetts. He enjoyed skiing, hiking, and gardening. Most of all-aside from his family-his love was training and competing with his beloved dogs. He had Labrador Retrievers for 55 years and French Bulldogs for the past 16 years. He and Elly traveled to many dog shows, competing with their dogs, and developed a network of dear lifelong friendships.

Brian was an avid reader and enjoyed exploring many topics in history and science. He loved books and often read two at a time.

Moving to Massachusetts was another chapter of his life. He was closer to family and made many new friends in The Village at Willow Crossing retirement community.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the charity of your choice.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Sun Chronicle on Oct. 15, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
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9 Entries

Marge Cooper

October 17, 2025

Brian was one special friend who I will forever be grateful for being in my life. A dog whisperer and a people person. Can´t get much better than that. I will miss you , my friend.

Stella Akscin

October 17, 2025

We'll always remember Brian for the goodness,tenderness, and love that he put into everything, especially the very special JayHawk Labs and we were honored to have. They were Brian (and Elly's) pride and joy that gave us endless happiness. Brain's humble nature radiated a kindness to all that he encountered. And will be missed. Rest in heavenly peace our friend. You have reached the finish line beautifully. With deepest condolences to Elly & family.
-Stella, Jay and Winston Akscin

Maryetta Durden

October 16, 2025

Sorry for your loss.

T.K., Bill & Clementine Whalen

October 16, 2025

Brian was a super nice guy with a great sense of humor. We had met him and Elly 18 years ago, having gotten our last two wonderful labs from JayHawk Labradors. We regarded him and Elly as dear and supportive friends and we will greatly miss his presence in our lives. Rest In Peace, Brian

Linda and Jeff Schutzman

October 15, 2025

I will forever be grateful to Brian for giving us the best and well trained quirky dog. Brian was a kind man moth a big heart. Our deepest condolences to Elly and their family.

Eric Wieber

October 15, 2025

I will cherish my wonderful friendship with Brian you are truly a great individual. I will miss you deeply my friend. I love you very much, Eric.

Emily Biegel

October 14, 2025

Dear Brian was instrumental in getting me to quit my 42-year smoking habit. He told me of a program called "Learn to Be Tobacco Free",and I will always be grateful for that. He was a beautiful person, always cheerful and positive. He and Elly were perfect together and good friends to many. May he rest in peace.

JOEL REITMAN

October 14, 2025

A great person

Rosemary Camilleri

October 13, 2025

A good man.

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