Jennie was born March 18th, 1921 in Batavia, the daughter of the late Louis and Rose (Scammaca) DeFino. She was lovingly nick named “Joll” for her jolly and joyful ways. She is the wife of the late N. Lawrence Hawks Jr.
Mrs. Hawks was a lifelong member of The Resurrection Parish-St. Joseph’s Church. She could regularly be seen, walking her children to church.
She retired after 21 years of dedicated service to GTE Sylvania in Batavia. Her work ethic was second to none.
Jennie was a devoted and unconditionally loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, sacrificially considering the needs of others first, before her own needs. Her mottos were as follows: “Get up early and make each day count “ “Be mindful, God is watching.” “Be good and be careful!” Babies and children held an especially dear place in her heart. A talented homemaker, she was well known for her Italian cooking and exceptional baking, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas. She loved knitting and crocheting. She loved music and enjoyed dancing well into her nineties.
Jennie is survived by her children, Janet L. Hawks of Batavia, Paul L (Mary Anne) Hawks of Florida, Betty Ann (Thomas) Bartz of Alexander, Sharon (Peter) Walker of Pennsylvania, Lawrence (Victoria) Hawks of Massachusetts, 11 Grandchildren and 27 Great Grandchildren.
Jennie is preceded in death by her siblings: Sam “Spats” DeFino, Mary Klute, Josephine Pacer, Betty Magarine, Annie Lafanara and Millie Povorsky. She was also preceded in death by a son, Jack Hawks.
Friends and Family May call on Saturday (September 19, 2020) from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Bohm-Calarco-Smith Funeral Home, 308 E. Main St. in Batavia where prayers will be recited at 12:30 p.m. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 Pandemic, Jennie's Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph's Church will be private for the family only. Burial will be in Grandview Cemtery in Batavia.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Choose to be Part of your Miracle Foundation, c/o The Community Foundation of NCM, 649 John Fitch Highway, Fitchburg, MA 01420.
Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.
