Kathleen Josephine Hawkins

Kathleen Josephine Hawkins May 22, 1948 – July 12, 2025

Kathleen Josephine Hawkins, born May 22, 1948, in Kemmerer, Wyoming, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, leaving behind a legacy defined by intellect, determination, and unwavering love.

Raised in Big Piney during the rugged decades of the '40s through the '60s, Kathleen, or Kathy, embodied the spirit of Wyoming—where the wind and the people don't back down. She was born with a mind of her own and an iron will, traits that would shape not just her life, but the lives of countless others.

Her parents, George and Evelene gifted the love of poetry and Shakespeare at an early age—and she would often recite entire passages and poems from memory. One of her favorites, “Nothing Gold Can Stay” by Robert Frost, captured her deep appreciation for fleeting beauty and enduring truth.

Kathy shared 54 years of marriage with her husband, Rick Hawkins—a partnership built on mutual support, laughter, and adventure. Their marriage got off to a dramatic start when Kathy broke her leg skiing on their honeymoon—but if anything, it only confirmed what the two of them would come to know well: life with Kathy would never be boring, and they could get through anything together.

She moved through life with only two speeds: 500 miles per hour or a full and contemplative stop—and Rick matched her stride, mile after mile. From hiking the steep staircases of Greece to combat fishing on Alaska’s Kenai River, the two rarely sat still. A trip was never fully completed until Rick heard “Mrs. Hawkins?” they could go halfway around the world and always run into one of her former students.

Some of their greatest adventures began with the arrival of their two sons—Travis and Rob. A fiercely proud mother, Kathy supported Rob in the rodeo arena and Travis through every season of sport. She stood in the stands, on the sidelines, and behind the scenes—cheering, coaching, and championing.

Her belief in youth extended beyond her own family. She was a quiet, determined force for kids growing up in rural Utah, especially those who dared to dream beyond what was expected. She supported them as they explored ideas and paths outside the norm, never letting small-town limits dim their potential.

A lifelong learner and passionate educator, Kathy dedicated her life to knowledge—both the acquisition of it and, more importantly, the giving. She served as a dedicated teacher and administrator in the Uintah School District for 43 years, shaping generations of students and educators. With grit, grace, and unwavering determination, she blazed trails for women in the education system, refusing to let barriers define her. She broke through good old boys’ clubs and ensured a well-marked trail for the women who would follow.

In the classroom, Mrs. Hawkins saw every student—not just as they were, but as who they could become. She expected success and instilled the confidence to chase it. She encouraged students to be their own person and see beyond the boundaries of small towns, even though she herself had grown up in one. She also mentored fellow teachers and administrators, helping shape not only classrooms, but the very system in which they taught. Her wisdom, high expectations, and deep sense of care left an indelible mark on schools and communities alike.

Kathy loved travel, reading, shopping, and above all, her family.

She leaves behind her beloved husband Rick, her two sons Rob and Travis (Angela), and her mark on generations of students—each of whom she remembered, believed in, and inspired.

Her presence will be deeply missed. “This too shall pass…” she would often say—a reminder that even sorrow has its season, and love carries on.

Kathy was preceded in death by parents George and Evelene Nichols, and brother Spencer Nichols. She is survived by husband Rick Hawkins, sons Travis and Rob Hawkins, sister Michelle Gulledge, and a troupe of nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to Congregational Church of Big Piney or St. Paul’s Episcopal Church of Vernal, Utah

A graveside service will be held at the Plainview Cemetery in Big Piney, Wyoming. Monday, July 21, 2025 at 11:30 am. A celebration of life will be held at a later date in Vernal, Utah.