Mrs. Virginia Rector Hawkins, age 94, of Independence, Virginia died on Saturday, December 31, 2022, at the Grayson Rehab and Nursing Center in Independence.  She was born on June 4, 1928, in Independence to Ray V. and Arkie Carico Rector. In addition to her loving parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Dan Warren Hawkins; two brothers, James Carico Rector and Joseph Preston (Pete) Rector; her wonderful mother and father-in-law Dan and Blanche Taylor Hawkins; and sister-in-law, Beulah Hawkins Ward.

She was a faithful member of Independence First United Methodist Church where she served as Church Treasurer and Financial Secretary. She was active on many church committees and served as a member of the church choir. She was also a member of the W.S.C.S., Wesleyan Services Guild, and First United Methodist Koinonia Women.  She was a dedicated member who was always faithful in doing anything to help.  As a member of the V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary she had served as President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Hospital Chairman.  In 1975 she was awarded "Woman of the Year" from the V.F.W. Ladies Auxiliary.  She was totally dedicated to serving all veterans and their families.  She was employed by Grayson National Bank and gave 45 years of dedicated service.  Even after her retirement, she continued working in the bank in a part-time capacity.

In 1986 Mrs. Hawkins received the Grayson County Humanitarian Award in recognition for her outstanding and meritorious service to humanity.

Mrs. Hawkins is survived by one niece, Barbara Snyder of Winston-Salem, NC; two great nieces, Becky Meadows of Easton, MD and Kristie Frazier of Rural Retreat, VA; great nephew, Doug Snyder of Wilmington, NC; two godsons and spouses, Harold and Sharon Walters of Independence, VA and The Rev. Jake and Kim Roudebush of Salem, Virginia; goddaughter, Wendi and Arthur Pemberton; many special friends, neighbors; special caregivers, Sarah Cox and Peggy Haga, both of Independence.

Funeral Services will be conducted on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, 11:00 AM at the Independence First United Methodist Church by The Rev. Jake Roudebush and the V.F.W. Post #7726 Ladies' Auxiliary.  Burial will follow in the Independence Cemetery.  Mrs. Hawkins will lie in state at the church one hour prior to the services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Independence First United Methodist Church, Memorial Fund PO Box 219 Independence, VA 24348, Independence Fire Department P0 Box 588 Independence, VA 24348 or to the Independence Rescue Squad PO Box 607 Independence, VA 24348.

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home in Independence, VA is serving the Hawkins family.