Norma M. Hawkins

After being read her daily devotions in the early morning hours on Tuesday, November 20, 2007, Norma M. Hawkins, 72, of Dover, died peacefully in her sleep.

Born in Sugarcreek on July 19, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Charles D. and Ada E. Levengood Andrews.

She will long be remembered for her Christian service, her incredible kindness, and, at any time, her willingness to share the gospel. Perhaps her greatest quality was her selflessness, putting the needs of others �" especially those less fortunate, in front of her own needs was the rule rather than the exception.

Norma was an active member of New Philadelphia�(TM)s First Christian Church, where her heart was poured into a variety of activities and ministry areas. She was instrumental in the development of the church lending library, and was among the first, and most passionate members to become active in areas of local outreach such as Hispanic Ministries and coordinating the church�(TM)s efforts with the Friends of the Homeless. She had been a member of both the Master Builders and Come Join Us adult Bible fellowship classes, and had led her own small group, “Sisters” Bible study. Norma also loved assisting in children�(TM)s ministries and was fond of spending time with the little ones in the nursery.

Away from church, Norma had a creative side as well. She enjoyed reading, sewing, and in recent years had become quite a painter. She always looked forward to her trips to the Tuscarawas County Center for the Arts, where, in addition to putting brush to canvas, she also made imprints on the hearts of several new friends whom she enjoyed spending time with.

On January 7, 1993, Norma was saddened by the loss of her husband, Brook E. Hawkins.

Her legacy lives on in her surviving family members that include: three sons, Rodney (Lin) Breyer of Reading, PA, David Breyer of Bay City, MI, and Randy Breyer of Dover; a daughter, Cheryl (Jerry) Herstine of Bolivar; and a brother, Dale (Donna) Andrews of Dover. Eleven grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren that meant the world to her, complete the family.

In addition to her parents and husband, Norma was preceded in death by: three sons, Frank Breyer, and Charles and Dale Hawkins; and a brother, Doyle Andrews.

Jim Borton will lead a ceremony that honors God and celebrates Norma�(TM)s life on Saturday, November 24, at 10:00 a.m. in the First Christian Church, 104 3rd St. NW, New Philadelphia. Immediately following the service, a meal for family and friends will be held in the church fellowship hall.

Those unable to attend or wishing to share a fond memory may sign the online register book for Norma by visiting the “obituaries” link on the funeral home�(TM)s website.

With her heart for service in mind, Norma�(TM)s family asks that, in lieu of flowers, memorial gifts be made to First Christian�(TM)s “Hope” Christmas Offering, which will assist area families and organizations during the Christmas holiday season. Contribution envelopes will be available at the church on Saturday, or you can mail to: Hope Christmas Offering, c/o First Christian Church, PO Box 474, New Philadelphia, Ohio, 44663.

The Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory, Dover has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Toland-Herzig
(330) 343-6132
www.tolandherzig.com