Ruth Ann Hawkins

In Loving Memory of Ruth Ann (Herod) Hawkins August 31, 1940 – October 15, 2024 Ruth Ann (Herod) Hawkins, a beacon of love, faith, and resilience, passed away on October 15, 2024, leaving behind a legacy that touched generations. 

Born on August 31, 1940, to Geneva Sterling-Herod and Charlie Wesley Herod, Ruth Ann was a trailblazer whose influence spanned across family, business, and community. 

Ruth Ann graduated from Lincoln High School (Dallas, Texas) in 1957, where she was an active member of the School Bible Club, French Club, Cowgirl Drill Team, and Jazz Club. She carried her passion for excellence into adulthood, continuing her studies at Velma B’s Beauty Academy.

 She later married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Nathaniel Hawkins, on April 27, 1957. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to open her own beauty salon, and she later retired from The Phoenix Salon of Dallas at the impressive age of 80. 

A woman of deep conviction, Ruth Ann was more than just a businesswoman—she was a fighter for justice. In 1960, she participated in the historic boycott of H.L. Green department store and restaurant in Dallas, courageously standing against segregation. Furthermore, she was an advocate and plaintiff in the federal court case to end forced busing of African American students. For these acts, and many others, she was later honored with the prestigious Special Recognition Award from the City of Dallas, a testament to her unwavering commitment and remarkable contributions to her community. Her dedication to civil rights and the black community will forever inspire those who knew her.  

Her love for music was unparalleled. A professional pianist and Minister of Music for over 62 years, Ruth Ann was a pillar at the Church of the Living God, Temple #129, where she also held the position of Youth Education Department President for nearly 40 years. She enriched the lives of countless children, instilling in them the seeds of Christianity and preparing them to be the next generation of soldiers for Christ. 

Beyond her church family, Ruth Ann leaves behind a sprawling legacy: 4 daughters (Kathy G.A. Hawkins-Ford, Natacha F.L. Hawkins-Drayden, Daphne E. Hawkins-Wilson, Jennifer L. Hawkins), 3 sons-in-law (Perry Ford, Dexter Drayden Sr., Henry Wilson Jr.), 9 grandchildren (Nathaniel Hawkins, Dexter Drayden Jr., Decha Drayden-Brooks, Natalie Drayden, Ashley Wilson, Henry Wilson III, Anthony Hawkins, Johnathan Hawkins, Joshua Hawkins), 16 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, and 1 goddaughter (Charmae Robertson). 

She was also cherished by her sister and best friend, Ethel Smith. Ruth Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Nathaniel Hawkins, and her parents (father: Charlie Wesley Herod, mother: Geneva Sterling-Herod). 

Her journey on this earth was one of love, strength, and unwavering faith. Though she is no longer with us, Ruth Ann’s legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the music she played, and the seeds of faith she planted.

 Although she had a remarkable and accomplished life, it is now that she has attained the ultimate achievement. She sings with the heavenly choir of angels, resting in the holy presence of God. 

… Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. (Matthew 25:21)