Darrell Thomas Hawkes, Sr. || Obituary

Darrell Thomas Hawkes, Sr., 83, passed away on April 5, 2025, in Paris, Texas. A devoted family man, entrepreneur, and community leader, Darrell lived a life marked by purpose, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others.

Born on October 2, 1941, in Victoria, Texas, Darrell began his education in San Benito before moving to Vanderbilt. He graduated from Industrial High School in 1960 and went on to earn a degree in Business Administration from The University of Texas at Austin in 1964. A lifelong learner with an insatiable curiosity, he was always reading and seeking ways to grow personally and professionally.

Darrell married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life Peggy on December 21, 1962, in Lolita, Texas.

Darrell’s career was as dynamic as his spirit. He began with Prudential Insurance in Texas before joining Mobil Oil, where his work took him across Texas and even to California. His entrepreneurial drive led him to New Orleans to manage a chain of Jim Dandy Chicken restaurants. In 1973, he settled in Paris, Texas, where he opened Champs restaurant—a local favorite that reflected his passion for hospitality and community connection.

Alongside his beloved wife Peggy, Darrell built a successful Amway business that spanned decades. Their work not only provided for their family but also created lasting friendships and partnerships across the country. Darrell had a gift for motivating others; he inspired those around him—family members, business associates, and friends alike—to pursue excellence and believe in their potential.

Darrell’s dedication extended far beyond business. After returning to Paris in 2001, he became deeply involved with Kiwanis International. As a proud Kiwanian, he served as Club President, Lieutenant Governor, President of the Past Lieutenant Governors Association for the Texas-Oklahoma District (TO District), Club Membership Chairman, Pancake Day Advertising Coordinator, and President of the Camp Kiwanis Board of Directors. His leadership left an indelible mark on the organization and the lives it touched.
He found great joy in cheering on his grandchildren at countless basketball games, baseball tournaments, soccer matches, and football fields. Whether from the stands or the sidelines, his support never wavered. An avid fisherman with a love for saltwater adventures aboard his boat “Here Fishy Fishy,” Darrell cherished time spent outdoors. He also enjoyed working on projects at home or at Camp Kiwanis—his hands were rarely idle.

Darrell is survived by his loving wife Peggy; brother Mike Hawkes and wife Janie; sister Linda Fitzhugh and husband Michael; son Darrell Thomas Hawkes Jr. and wife Dee; daughter Stacie Johnson and husband Douglas; grandchildren Matthew Johnson and wife Megan; Samuel Thomas Hawkes and girlfriend Ashley Najavar; Nichole Hawkes; Michayla Hawkes; Jake Johnson; Tucker Johnson and girlfriend Karli Jo Shelton; and great-grandson Jace Thomas Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Karen Leigh Hawkes; parents T.G. (Thomas George) and Alice Hawkes; parents-in-law Leon and Hattie Horne; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents who shaped his early life.

Online condolences may be sent to the Hawkes family by visiting www.fry-gibbs.com

A memorial service celebrating Darrell’s life will be held on Friday, April 11, 2025, at 10:30 AM at the Lamar Electric Coop Meeting Room located at 5225 US-82 in Blossom, Texas (75416). The service will be followed immediately by a potluck luncheon for all filled with fond stories of Darrell—a fitting tribute to a man who brought people together wherever he went.
In Lieu of Flowers, the family would request charitable donations be made to: Camp Kiwanis, PO Box 554, Paris, Texas 75461 to be used for a camp improvement project in his memory.