Community of Christ Minister Richard Hawks Dies at 75

Richard Wayne Hawks

August 4, 1947 – January 8, 2023

Richard W. Hawks was born in Marshall, Michigan, in 1947, one of eight children raised by Arthur and Alice Hawks. Raised on a farm, he developed a deep appreciation for the outdoors and a strong work ethic. He excelled academically, graduating high school with honors and earning a scholarship to Purdue University to study engineering. However, he soon discovered a passion for working with people and transferred to Graceland University to pursue a degree in Elementary Education.

After graduation, Richard received a job offer but was instead drafted into the military. He was assigned to Okinawa, where he served as a Military Police officer. During his time there, he also served as Pastor of the English-speaking Okinawa Congregation of the Community of Christ Church. This experience deepened his commitment to ministry and led him to return home with a renewed sense of purpose.

Upon his return, Richard dedicated himself to serving the needs of church congregations in the Detroit and Chicago areas. He married and raised a son, Devon, while continuing to grow in his ministry. His gifts and skills led to a national call within the Community of Christ Church, where he served as an Appointee Minister. His assignments included youth outreach in Los Angeles, regional administration across the northeastern United States, and campus ministry at Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa.

In his final years, Richard served the Michigan region, focusing on youth ministry and sharing his family’s history of escaping slavery on the underground railroad to Canada. His guitar, a constant companion, helped tell the story of “Wade in the Water,” a song with deep historical and spiritual significance.

Richard was deeply committed to his Priesthood Office of Seventy and later served as one of the Presidents of Seventy, overseeing missionary and outreach efforts. His ministry extended internationally, taking him to Australia, Tahiti, Haiti, and throughout the United States. Even after retiring from official duties, he continued to serve as an outreach minister, providing support and care to others until his death.

Throughout his life, Richard embodied the values of service, compassion, and dedication. His legacy is one of kindness, faith, and a lifelong commitment to helping others.

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