Bruce William Hawkins, 71, of Collinsville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his beloved family. Born on April 19, 1953, and raised in Granite City, Illinois, Bruce was the son of Velma and Raymond Penn of Collinsville and William Hawkins. He was preceded in death by his parents as well as his daughter Leslie Hawkins.

A dedicated educator and cherished member of the music community, Bruce graduated from Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville, where he pursued a degree in music education and was an active member of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. Over his distinguished 35-year career as a band director in the Shiloh and Collinsville school districts, Bruce profoundly impacted the lives of countless students, earning admiration and respect from both colleagues and students. His contributions to music education were recognized with numerous awards, and he was an esteemed member of the National Band Directors Association.

Bruce's love for his family was evident in all aspects of his life. He is survived by his devoted wife, Ruth Anne Hawkins; his children, Joseph Hawkins and his wife Beth of Ohio, Laurel Hawkins of Collinsville, Roma and Jimmy Kline of Collinsville, and Carmen and Paul Rose of Collinsville; his treasured grandchildren, James, Rowan, Keagan, and Marin Kline, Silas and Adler Hawkins, and Alan and Edmund Rose; his sisters, Nancy Baker, Catrenia and Jeff Baber, and Lori and Dennis Shup; and his in-laws, Robert and Paula Knecht and George and Belinda Knecht. Bruce was known for his unwavering pride in his family, often sharing stories of his children and grandchildren with a joyful spirit.

A devoted member of Our Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Maryville, IL, Bruce's faith was a central part of his life. His contributions to the church community, including his involvement with the Knights of Columbus and the Booster Club, reflected his deep commitment to his faith and community.

Outside of his professional and community roles, Bruce enjoyed boating, fishing, gardening, and cutting the grass. His infectious enthusiasm and knack for making friends wherever he went brought joy and laughter to all who knew him. His storytelling, whether shared once or many times, was a source of delight to those around him.

Bruce's family finds comfort in knowing that he lived a life full of love, laughter, and purpose.

A Visitation to celebrate Bruce's life will be held at Herr Funeral Home in Collinsville on Thursday, August 1, 2024 from 4 pm to 8 pm.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Maryville on Friday, August, 2, 2024 @ 10 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Bruce's honor to the Collinsville Community School District Unit 10 where funds will be used to cover band instrument rental fees for students in need.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/cusd-10-hawkins-memorial?attribution_id=sl:7b03574c-e41e-4d5d-b8cc-3c55b9c812b9&utm_campaign=man_sharesheet_dash_ai&utm_content=amp1v4&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=sms

Bruce William Hawkins was a man of remarkable character and boundless warmth. His legacy will endure in the hearts of all who knew him and through the many lives he touched. May he rest in peace.

For further details, please contact Herr Funeral Home at 618-344-0187.