Kenneth R. Hawkins Sr., 78, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 11, 2021, at Heritage Park Care and Rehabilitation Center in Bradenton, Florida.

​Ken was born on August 11, 1942, to Weldon and Myrtle Hawkins in Avon Park, Florida. After graduating from Fort Myers High School in 1960, he went to work for the Hawkins flower farm. He also was a deputy sheriff in Collier County.

​Ken was a lifelong gladiolus farmer, spending most of his career with Manatee Fruit Company of Palmetto, Florida as farm manager. It brought him great joy to know that the beautiful flowers he grew and shared with the world helped ease sorrow, celebrate special occasions and create many special memories for anyone who was lucky enough to receive them.

​Ken is survived by two sons, Keith Hawkins (wife Tina) and Kevin Hawkins (wife Laura); a daughter-in-law, Linda Hawkins; seven grandchildren, Dylan Hawkins, Zachary Hawkins, Sarah Hawkins, Shelby Hawkins, Paul Hawkins, Justin Hawkins and Avril Hawkins and a sister, Evelyn Berry. He was preceded in death by one son, Kenny Hawkins Jr.

​The family would like to extend a special thank you to Larry and Ruth Covins (formerly Ruth Hawkins) for their love and support throughout this trying time.

​Baldwin Brothers Funeral & Cremation Society has been entrusted with the arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at baldwincremation.com.