Sabe Hawkins

Sabe W. Hawkins, 92, of Johnson City, TN, passed away on October 8, 2025 surrounded by his children. Sabe was a native of East TN, born in Erwin on June 3, 1933 to the late Sidney Arthur and Alice Katherine Hawkins. Sabe joined the Navy in 1952, serving in the Korean War, being honorably discharged in 1955, proud of his service. He then attended ETSU, where he met the love of his life, Joan Elizabeth Sylvester. Sabe graduated from ETSU near the top of his class.

He married his sweetheart, Joan, in 1959, which in his own words was the most important thing he did in his life. During their 50 years and 2 days of marriage (which Sabe remembered until his last days), Sabe and Joan built a wonderful life together, including raising their two children, Steve and Lisa. Sabe was active in the United Methodist Church and supported many charities and Veterans' organizations. Sabe valued God, family, and friends above all else.

Sabe was preceded in death by his parents, Sidney and Alice, his loving wife, Joan, and his sister, Marjorie Masters. He is survived by his children, Steve Hawkins (Angie) and Lisa Hawkins Kimmons (Chris); his grandchildren whom he cherished greatly: Matthew Hawkins (Leilani); Taylor Burkey (Brandon); Jacob Hawkins (Paige); Caroline Routh (Joshua), and Lauren Kimmons. In addition, Sabe leaves behind his sister, Beverly Jo Britt, and several nieces and nephews.

"If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away." ~Henry David Thoreau

The family will receive friends on Sunday, October 12, 2025, from 4:00pm until 6:00pm at Morris-Baker Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held immediately following at 6:00pm. A graveside service will be on Monday, October 13, 2025, at Monte Vista Memorial Park at 12:00pm. All attending are asked to meet at the cemetery no later than 11:45am.

In lieu of flowers, Sabe requested for donations to be made to The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke in loving memory of his wife, Joan. Checks should be made payable to Tisch Brain Tumor Center and sent to The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, DUMC Box 3624, Durham, NC 27710.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E Oakland Ave, Johnson City, is serving the Hawkins family. (423) 282-1521