OBITUARY Elmer Arthur Hawkins of Sullivan, MO departed this life in Washington, MO on Friday, June 23, 2023, having reached the age of fifty-four years, seven months and twenty-six days. Elmer was born in St. Louis, MO on October 28, 1968, son of Edwin Arthur Hawkins and Jeanette Shirley Hawkins nee Boelsing. Elmer is survived by his daughter, Kayla Wood and husband, Danny; by one granddaughter, Penelope; by his special friend, Sheila Woods and son Joseph Woods of St. Clair, MO; by one sister, Frances Hawkins of St. Clair, MO; by two special nephews, Sam Brown and girlfriend, Ashlynn Godefroid, of St. Clair, MO and Zachary Brown and fiancé, Savana Palmer, of St. Clair, MO; by his special great-nephews, Cecil and Holden Brown; and by many other nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. Elmer was preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Jeanette Hawkins; by his brothers, William Hawkins, Melvin Loness and Walter Loness; and by one sister, Peggy Jane Loness. Elmer was a Christian, having been raised in the Baptist faith and believing in the Lord as his Savior. After graduating from St. Clair High School, he was proud to have served his country in the United States Army. During his working career he was employed as a machine operator and laborer at various factories in the area. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, especially deer, turkey and squirrels. He also loved to shoot guns and loved to watch the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. He enjoyed spending time with his nephews, Sam and Zac, whether attending their school events, baseball games, football games, hunting, or fishing. What meant most to him was the time he spent with his special nephews. The love they shared and many precious memories they created will forever be cherished by them all. A kind and loving companion, brother, uncle, great-uncle, cousin and treasured friend, he will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, July 1, 2023 at Russell Colonial Funeral Home in St. Clair, MO with Rev. Raymond Laramore officiating. Interment will be in New Chapel Hill Cemetery in Sullivan, MO. The family was served by Russell Colonial Funeral Home in St. Clair, MO.