Carleta Pauline Hawkins

Carleta Pauline (Bunch) Hawkins, 68, of Kirksville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 13th, 2025, at Boone Hospital, surrounded by her loved ones.

Carleta was born on March 4th, 1957, in Kirksville, Missouri, to Jesse and Esther (Linhart) Bunch. She grew up in Sullivan County and graduated from Green City R-1 High School in 1975. Always dedicated to helping others, Carleta earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Truman State University in 1995.

Carleta worked at several healthcare facilities in Kirksville throughout her career, where she was known for her compassion and dedication to those in her care. After many years of service, she retired to focus on her greatest joy, being a stay-at-home Nana. She loved spending her days caring for her granddaughter before preschool, creating lasting memories that will be cherished by her family.

Carleta is survived by her loving husband, Wayne Hawkins; her two children, Jennifer (Joe) Sharp and Ryan Hawkins, both of Kirksville; and her adored grandchildren, Farren Sharp and Alden Sharp. She is also survived by her brothers, Donnie (Janet) Bunch of Kirksville, Missouri; Roger (Margaret) Bunch of Brookfield; her sisters, Alesa Langwell of Chillicothe; Mary (Kary) Hoerrmann of Milan; and eight nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Larry Bunch; and her aunt, Vera Bunch.

Carleta was an avid reader, a passionate antique collector, and could never resist a good yard sale. She was also known for her love of coffee, which she would enjoy at any time of day. But more than anything, she loved her family, especially the time she spent with her grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

Carleta’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family will be deeply missed. Her legacy lives on in the memories she created and the love she shared.

Memorials may be left to the funeral home intended for the George Ray Cancer in Kirksville, Missouri.