Maria Luisa Hawkins

Maria Luisa Hawkins

June 26, 1937-April 14, 2025

Maria Luisa Hawkins, 87, passed away on April 14, 2025 at her home in El Paso, TX.

Maria “Luisa” Hawkins was born on June 26, 1937 in Padova, Italy to Domenico and Lina Simonato. In 1962, 1st Sgt. Joe A. Hawkins had the good fortune of being introduced to Luisa through mutual friends; they were married on July 17, 1962.

Between 1962 and 1974 Luisa and Joe moved between Italy, Virginia, Alabama, El Paso, and Germany, before they settled permanently back in El Paso, TX to raise their children among family and lifelong friends. In 2004 Luisa retired from YISD where she worked in the cafeteria at Parkland Middle School for over 20 years. Following retirement Luisa traveled, took up reading, continued to care for her family (including her beloved dogs), and enjoyed the company of her friends and neighbors.

Luisa was a gifted seamstress, a casual gardener, a fantastic cook and a longtime member of El Paso’s Italian Club. She was a loyal friend to many and a gracious host to all; she was stoic and resilient; she was sensible but softhearted. Above all, she was a loving and devoted wife, mother and Nonna.

Luisa was preceded in death by her husband of 48 years, Joe A. Hawkins, her daughter, Barbara Dehass, her parents, and her brothers: Franco and Bruno Simonato.

She is survived by her sons: Thomas Hawkins and wife Brenda, John Hawkins and wife, Marissa; son-in-law James Dehass; grandchildren: Cassie Gang, Toby Jackson, Emily Salazar, Darby Dehass, Caroline Hawkins and Joseph Hawkins; great-grandchildren: Sterling Clanton, Jackson Clanton, Daxton Gang and Easton Jackson. Her sister, Tosca Giro; brothers: Danielo Simonato and Enrico Simonato; and several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Luisa’s many friends and healthcare staff who offered her company, care and support these past several years. Their dedication and kindness will not be forgotten.

Visitation and Rosary will take place from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Thursday, May 29, 2025. Funeral-Mass will be held the following day at 10:00 am. Both will be held at Sunset Funeral Home-Northeast (4631 Hondo Pass Dr., El Paso, TX 79904). Committal Service will follow at Fort Bliss National Cemetery.