In Memory of Police Officer Bryan Christopher Hawkins

On Thursday, August 5, 2021, Police Officer Bryan Christopher Hawkins died due to complications of COVID19. Georgia officials were saddened to release the news of this loss to residents. Unfortunately, Georgia, like many other states, has lost many law enforcement officers to the virus. Officer Bryan Hawkins, badge number 2233, was 58 years old.

Hawkins was a member of the Lake City Police Department. He served his community as a law enforcement officer for over 22 years. His first position in law enforcement was with the Forest Park Police Department, where he started his career in 2003.

Lake City Police Department, Georgia

Hawkins had served the LCPD for over five years. He was the proud wearer of badge number 2233. The Lake City Police Department serves their community with approximately sixteen fully sworn officers and one civilian administrative employee. Despite the smaller size of the department, the agency patrols 24-hours-per-day and amazingly has a response rate average of fewer than two minutes.

LCPD has two investigators, and they work hand-in-hand with the Clayton County District Attorney’s office to help put criminals behind bars. The current Police Chief Whitmore has many years of experience as an officer. He took charge of the agency in 2018. The loss of a veteran officer like Officer Hawkins could significantly impact the department and its morale. Losing a colleague can be devastating. These officers work so closely together it can be like losing a family member.

Remembrances

Police Officer Bryan Christopher Hawkins leaves behind his wife, extended family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers. Residents lined the streets with signs and flags to say their goodbyes to their local hero during the police escort to his final resting place. Honor guards, made up of volunteer officers, work with families to provide memorable service and demonstrate the honor deserved for such a selfless sacrifice.

The Lake City Police Department shared the announcement of the loss to residents on Facebook. “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our very own Officer Bryan Hawkins. If you had the opportunity to meet Officer Hawkins, you know the joy he brings to all of those around him. Officer Hawkins never met a stranger. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. Rest Easy, Officer Hawkins, we’ve got the watch from here, brother. We will post arrangements at a later date.”

A line from Hawkins obituary, written by his church with his family, read: “Bryan showed love and respect to everyone he met, and will be missed by all who knew him. It’s time to rest now, Officer; your work is done. You fulfilled your duty with honor, and you will be forever loved.”

Geoff and Heather Mays shared condolences for the family. “Bryan was a wonderful person, friend, and coworker. He always had a great outlook on everything. My prayers are with you all.”

Friend George Fine shared his goodbyes in sadness. “I will miss you greatly, my friend. You were truly one of the great ones. One who always was eager and willing to help a person in need. I am a better and richer person from you being in my life Hawk. My friend.”