In memoriam: Jerry Lee Hawks of E.L. Hawks, Inc.

Carolinas Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association, Inc. (CRSMCA) remembers Jerry Lee Hawks of E.L. Hawks, Inc.

It is with great sadness that we share with you the passing of Jerry Lee Hawks of E.L. Hawks, Inc.

Jerry Lee Hawks (Jer-Bear) of Whiteville entered the gates of heaven on September 17, 2025, after a short illness. He was 80 years old. Born in Athens, Georgia, he lived in Hull, Georgia with his parents Leroy and Remelle Hawks until age 12. His family moved to Whiteville in 1956 and opened the doors of E.L. Hawks Roofing, Inc. Whiteville City Schools was where he met lifelong friends that support one another until this very day.

After graduating from Whiteville High, Jerry enlisted in the U.S. Navy, qualifying in Submarines in 1969. He served as a submariner for six years. Jerry joined his father’s business after serving his country.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sue West Hawks, his daughter, Hillary Hawks Melvin, son-in-law, Kyle Melvin, grandchildren, Addison Marine and Graham Austin Melvin, an aunt, Gale Brown, sisters-in-law, Marsha Griffin, Pamela West and Tonda West, brothers-in-law, Larry Griffin and Zeb V. West and a niece Vanessa West.

Funeral services were held Sunday, September 21, 2025 at Whiteville United Methodist Church with Reverend Howard James officiating. Burial with Military Honors was held at Whiteville Memorial Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Whiteville United Methodist Church, 901 Pinckney St., Whiteville, North Carolina, 28472.

McKenzie Mortuary, 112 Jefferson Street, Whiteville, North Carolina, is serving the Hawks family.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Jerry Lee Hawks, please visit our floral store.

Please visit www.mckenziemortuary.net/obituary/JerryLee-Hawks.

May we all remember Jerry, his family and friends during this time.