Mr. Haywood Hawkins, Jr. entered this world on July 24, 1942 in Lowndes County, MS to Louise Foster Hawkins and Haywood Hawkins, Sr. He accepted Christ at an early age under the leadership of Rev. A.L. Evans at Mt. Olive Hackleberry. He was raised in Crawford, MS for some years until the family decided to move to Columbus. He, along with his family, began attending Mt. Zion M.B. Church and he remained a faithful member for many years until his health declined. He served faithfully in various auxiliaries throughout the church.

Haywood attended R.E. Hunt High School earning his high school diploma. He then enrolled at Jackson State University earning his bachelor's degree. He continued his studies with Tugaloo College and Mississippi State University where he obtained his master's degree. After College, Haywood began a long and successful career in education as a history teacher with the Columbus Municipal School District. Not only did he mentor many students but met many teachers who became his close friends. Haywood not only excelled as an educator, but as a businessman as well. He was the owner and operator of Hawkins Striping Service and a property manager for The Lloyd Group.

Haywood had many names such as "Silk", "Peppermint Man" or even "Smokey". Haywood had a heart of gold and love the people who surrounded him. He cherished the love and the visits from his church members and his family.

Haywood is preceded in death by his wife, Marie H. Hawkins; his parents, his grandparents, Johnny & Rosie Foster, Charlie & Lizzie Hawkins and Sarah Petty.

He leaves behind to cherish his memories: his children, Vincent (Kim) Hawkins of Columbus, GA, Harold Hawkins of Columbus, MS, Gerrol Hawkins of Loganville, GA, Marvin Roland of New York and Jerolyn Richard of Columbus, MS; a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; his siblings, Dorothy (James) Purnell of Dyerburg, TN, Robert (Denise) Hawkins, Deloris Brooks both of Columbus, MS, Brenda (James) Davis of Houston, TX, and Lori (Harold) Tarver of Sacramento, MS; his special sitters, Lula Hairston, Kanesha Temple, and Ramona Brooks; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.