Waylon Dare Hawkins

Dare Hawkins (Mr. Hawk) passed away on April 7th after an extended illness as a result of cancer. Born in Decatur, Alabama, Dare received a partial football scholarship at the University of Alabama, finishing his education at Alabama State University in Florence. He also served in the military as an Infantry Airborne Ranger. Dare and his wife of 30 years, Rita, resided for the past seven years at their home on Second Street in Gulfport, Mississippi. Following Hurricane Katrina, Dare and Rita were among the first to rebuild their home. Dare was involved in the Outdoor Advertising Industry most of his career, recently as President & CEO of Hawk Media, Inc. of Southern Mississippi/Alabama Gulf Coasts with offices in Mobile, Gulfport, and Florida Dare was active in many civic organizations, including the Alabama Jaycees, Salvation Army, Civitan Club and United Cerebral Palsy. He is survived by his loving wife Rita; daughter Jennifer Hawkins; and grandchildren James and Alyssa. A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, April 28, 2007 at the Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15452 O’Neal Road, Gulfport, MS (PH: 228-831-2322) with the Reverend Guss Shelly, officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Saturday from 1:30 PM until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Dare’s memory to the Salvation Army of Gulfport, P.O. Box 728, Gulfport, MS 39502. View and sign register book at www.bradfordokeefe.com