Ernest Wayne Hawkins, born September 25, 1951, in Alamosa, Colorado, passed away August 12, 2025 at home. A lifelong devotee to faith, family, and education, Ernest touched countless lives with his wisdom and kindness.

He married his beloved wife, June Allen, on August 16, 1974, in the Manti temple. Together, they built a loving family, raising four children: Shanda (Jared) Jensen, Brandon (Jenni) Hawkins, Mandy (Matthew) Cope, and Derek (Lisa) Hawkins. They have been blessed with 11 grandchildren.

A dedicated scholar, Ernest earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Animal Science from Brigham Young University, followed by a Ph.D. from the University of Wyoming. He shared his knowledge and passion for animal science as a professor at BYU and as a manager at Deseret Meat.

Ernest served faithfully as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the California East Mission (1970–1972) and later with June in the Welfare Ranches Mission (2017–2019). Throughout his life, Ernest answered many calls to serve, including as Bishop, Stake President, MTC Branch President, and Patriarch.

Ernest’s legacy of faith, service, and learning lives on in his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him.

A public viewing will be held Thursday night from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, August 21, 2025 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 870 E Canyon Rd, Spanish Fork, UT. A second viewing will take place Friday, August 22, 2025 at the church from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm followed by funeral services at 1:00pm. Interment will follow at the Spanish Fork City Cemetery.