Carolyn Ann Collins Hawkins of Smithville, TN, passed away on January 7, 2023, at Erlanger Hospital following a brief illness. Carol was born on October 9, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois. Her family moved to Hendersonville, TN, where she graduated from Hendersonville High School in 1970. Carol attended Tennessee Tech and graduated with Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in education. She taught in the Putnam County school system for some 40 years, and was much beloved by many, many of her students. Teaching young people was her passion, and she excelled in all aspects of her career. Many will remember her success coaching nationally-ranked academic teams at Cookeville High School, and the important role she played in the implementation and development of the International Baccalaureate program offered there. She worked ceaselessly and conscientiously on behalf of her students, regardless of their particular station or status. She set an example not only for students, but for colleagues as well. She leaves behind a lasting legacy embedded in the hearts and minds of so many whose lives she touched. 

Carol is survived by her husband of 47 years, Michael, a sister, Dale Carpenter, of White House, TN, several brothers- and sisters-in-law, as well as a number of nephews, nieces, great nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lon and Fran Collins, and a sister, Patti. She is sorely missed by her constant companion, her beloved chihuahua Sugar. 

Carol has chosen cremation. A memorial service will be held in her honor; the date and location have yet to be determined. A scholarship fund has been established in her honor at this website:  https://bold.org/funds/the-carolyn-hawkins-memorial-scholarship-fund/

for any who wish to celebrate and further support those whom she loved so dearly- her students! For further information or assistance with a donation, please email Joye Andrews-Ashby: joye.ashby@pcsstn.com or Michael Hawkins: hawkwing52@gmail.com