James "Jim" Carroll Hawthorne Jr.

James “Jim” Carroll Hawthorne, Jr., the patriarch of our family, went to be with his Lord and Savior on September 16, 2022. He was 83 years old and was a lifelong Texan and resident of Burleson, Texas. He is survived by the love of his life and soulmate, Jessie Hawthorne, his four children whom he adored, Karen Bennett and her husband Barry, Christopher Wilson, Andrew Hawthorne and his husband Josh, Jim Bob Hawthorne and his wife Tammy. He is also survived by his cherished grand children Matthew Bennett, Bradley Bennett, Jacob Bennett, Isabelle Wilson, Tucker Wilson, Brittany Hammett, Bo Hawthorne, Melanie Lafay, Cody Hawthorne, Emma Arzamendi, and Logan Kennedy. Jim was also survived by four great grandchildren, Hendrix Hawthorne, Harrison Arzamendi, Preston Hammett and Harper Hammett. Jim was preceded in death by his father, James Carrol Hawthorne, Sr., his mother Ruby Hawthorne, his precious son Todd Hawthorne and his two brothers Tim Hawthorne, and Tommy Hawthorne.

Jim was an amazing man of intellect and strength, who had many interests and titles. He was a college graduate and a former college athlete. He loved sports, especially football, baseball, and golf. He and Jessie spent many hours watching their beloved Rangers and Cowboys, no matter how frustrating the outcome. For many years, Jim was an avid golfer, enjoying time on the course with his sons and grandsons. He was a softball coach, teaching his daughter Karen with great patience and care. Jim was a rancher. He loved to spend time tending to his cows. He always had a story about his “lot” where he raised his cows. Jim, always the supportive dad, helped his son Chris raise and show cattle across the state. One thing is certain, Jim was encouraging Chris, as he did all of his children, passing on his wisdom and knowledge. He followed all of his children and grandchildren wherever they needed him to go. Jim was an amazing father. Always supportive of children’s interests, from Todd’s rodeos to Andy’s soccer games and then it continued to all the sporting events and graduations of the grandchildren. Over the years, he watched many soccer matches, football games, softball games, volleyball games, cheerleading, golf tournaments, and beauty pageants.

He taught his kids how to live a good life, one that honors their parents and God. He shared his wisdom over many hours of dominoes. Best of all, Jim taught his children by example, showing them how to love, God and family. He had a special place in his heart for his grandchildren. Affectionately known as “grandpa” he spent as much time with his grandchildren as possible. He never missed a birthday or special occasion and was always quick with a hug and an “I love you.”

His greatest talent and title however, was that of patriarch. He was a family man through and through and nothing meant more to him than his family. He met Jessie in 1976 and it was love at first sight. The two of them shared a love affair that lasted forty-six years. Jim dedicated his life to Jessie and that was never more evident than when she was diagnosed with cancer. He was by her side the entire time, never missing a doctor’s visit or chemotherapy treatment. He took care of the house, cooked, cleaned, and drove Jessie wherever she needed to go. He was her rock. Gratefully, Jim and Jessie celebrated her victory over cancer together several years ago.

Jim loved to work. Never one to stay idle, he was always doing something (unless the Cowboys or Rangers were playing). He worked hard his entire life, always providing for his family. He continued to work until his 80s. For many years Jim owned and operated “The Station” where he sold gas and worked on cars. Everyone knew that at the station there was something good on the smoker. Jim’s generosity was without equal. The customers knew where to go if they needed anything at all.

Jim will be missed by his family and friends. The world has lost an incredible man. His family is comforted by knowing he is enjoying the riches of Heaven, reunited with his parents, brothers and son. Farwell Jim, dad, grandpa, till we meet again in the glory of Heaven.