Bryan Kent "Ken" Hawkins

Bryan Kent "Ken" Hawkins, a resident of Wetumpka, Ala., passed away Thursday, March 9. He was born in Crane, Mo., on June 10, 1939, to Bryan W. and Annabelle Hawkins and was raised in Nevada, graduating from Nevada High School.

Hawkins served as a Company Commander in the 85th Division after graduating from U.S. Army Basic Administration School and Infantry Officer's Candidate School. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and Shriner. He started his career in the broadcast industry in high school at the local radio station. Over the next 60 years, his career included positions as salesman, manager and owner/operator of numerous radio and television stations in Missouri, Kentucky, Indiana, Mississippi, Louisiana and Alabama. He was also selected to attend the TVB/Harvard University General Sales Manager's School and various other industry-sponsored educational seminars. He was the General Manager of WAKA-TV in Montgomery and was the initial CEO of Raycom Media. After retiring as Chairman from Raycom, Hawkins continued in the broadcast industry as a media broker assisting clients across the country. Ken was an avid fisherman and golfer, serving as President of Arrowhead Country Club and the Alabama 60+ Golf Association as well as positions with numerous other community and service organizations.

In addition to his parents, Hawkins was predeceased by his sister, JoAgnes Brown and brothers Bob and Jack Hawkins. Survivors include his wife Marilyn; sons, Brett and Todd (Candy); and grandson, Phillip Hawkins. He is also survived by his sisters, Sandra Barrett Thomas and Linda Hawkins Moore (K.C.); and niece, Robyn Moore; and many additional nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life and reception was held Sunday, March 12 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Arrowhead Country Club, 50 Ocala Drive, Montgomery, Ala. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.gassettfuneralhome.net. Gassett Funeral Home of Wetumpka is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude's Hospital for Children or the charity of choice.