James Roy Hawkins

James Roy Hawkins, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and a pillar of his community, passed away on June 17, 2026, at the age of 91. 

A Visitation honoring James Roy will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Ray Funeral Home from 10 AM to 11 AM, followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11 AM. A graveside service will take place immediately thereafter.

James Roy was born on October 14, 1934 to James Sell and Lela Hawkins in Merigold, MS. James Roy spent a fulfilling life devoted to his family, farming, and his faith.
In 1953 James Roy married Polly Evelyn Wilcutt and they were married for 69 years until she passed away in 2022. Then he married Cathy Conico in December 2023.

For over 60 years, James devoted himself to farming. He started farming when he was just a teenager with his Mother and Daddy.  When he was able to save enough money, he purchased his first 120 acres, which was known as the “Homeplace”. His farming career grew and his work ethic was above and beyond. James Roy was very conservative and frugal but was also very generous to many people.  

Around 1972, James Roy went into the horse show business. This was a hobby that included the entire family.  He always had an eye for a good horse and often others joked that if the horse would not win, he would buy one that would win.  He never liked when Spunky and Angie would get beat. James Roy did not like to travel but he would go all over the country to go to a horse show.  This family hobby/ business continued until just a few short years ago.

James Roy was a passionate supporter of Ole Miss athletics and was known for his spirited enthusiasm during every game. He planned his day around ballgames, including listening to the Rebels play ball while combining rice and beans.

His commitment to his faith was evident throughout his life; he was ordained as a deacon in 1970 at Merigold Baptist Church and later served for 30 years at Calvary Baptist Church, including a time as chairman of the deacons. James Roy is currently a member of Merigold Baptist Church where he served as an active deacon until his fall in February 2025.  He is also an associate member of Covenant Presbyterian Church.  

He was an alderman in the town of Merigold for several terms and even served as Vice-Mayor during that time. James Roy was also an active member of the American Quarter Horse Association and the Mississippi Quarter Horse Association for over 40 years.  

James Roy is preceded in death by his wife of 69 years Polly W. Hawkins; parents, James Sell and Lela Hawkins; his brothers William and Bob Hawkins; and his beloved son-in-law, Billy Ray Kent. 
He is survived by his devoted wife, Cathy Conico Hawkins; his children, Angela Hawkins Kent of Merigold and James "Spunky" Hawkins Jr. of Morton, MS; His step-children, Felicia (Marc) Brinkley and Marshall (Brandi) Conico of Madison, MS; His grandchildren, Roianna Correro, Zayne Hawkins, Jamie Mangum, and Houston Hawkins. Additionally, he leaves behind step-grandchildren Creed Brinkley, Gray Brinkley of Hernando, MS, and Maddy and Caleb Conico of Madison, MS, Great-grandchildren include Seph Correro, Manning Hawkins, Justise Hawkins, and Hawkins Correro. He also leaves behind his precious sister, Marguerite West of Prattville, AL. and a host of nieces that are very special to him.

The family would like to express sincere gratitude to Indywood Personal Care Home, Hospice of North Sunflower County, and Walter B. Crook Nursing Facility.
James Roy Hawkins will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Merigold Baptist Church Elevator Fund, PO Box N, Merigold, MS 38759.

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