Catherine Marie Hawkins

Catherine Marie Hawkins (Carelli), 66, passed away Thursday, December 3rd 2020. She is survived by her two children, who were her world, Amanda Hawkins (age 35), Benjamin Hawkins (age 36). Cathy was raised in Eatontown, NJ until her family moved to Sunbury, PA. They later moved to Oakhurst, NJ where she spent her high school years and became lifelong best friends with Denise Gallello. Cathy was a graduate of Cabrini College in Radner, PA with a Bachelor’s in Education. After graduating, she moved to Lawrence Harbor, NJ and pursued her passion as a special education teacher in the Matawan School District. Cathy met her husband Stephen Hawkins in Cape Cod and married on May 24th 1980. It was a beautiful ceremony followed by a reception filled with love and laughs that will live on through memories of all those who attended. The love they had for each other was extraordinary and held strong until Stephen’s passing on April 12, 2011. They made their way to Franklin, MA in 1994 where their children grew up and were surrounded by some of the best neighbors anyone could ask for. Cathy was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She was ever so present in each of her children’s lives whom are eternally grateful. The memories will live on in each of their hearts forever.

Cathy continued her teaching in the town of Franklin where her students made a permanent imprint on her life and in kind impacted countless students along the way. Cathy loved the beach, the warmth of the sun, music, and beautiful art that reflected her magnificence. Cathy had a special place in her heart for animals, particularly for dogs that filled their home with such love and kindness. Her latest companion, Elizabeth, was by her side constantly giving her comfort when she needed it the most. Cathy also crafted seasonal wreaths that will be a constant reminder of what a beautiful person she was for those who have one of her pieces.

Cathy is predeceased by her loving husband Stephen Hawkins and her father Albert Carelli. She is survived by her daughter in-law Courtney Hawkins (Anderson), mother Judith Stout (Carelli), brother Stephen Carelli, sister-in-law Lisa Carelli (DeSimone), aunt Carol Magarino (Carelli), brother-in-law Richard Hawkins, best friend Denise Gallello, along with many other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers please send donations to the St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 Saint Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.