Cecile Hawkins

Cecile Hawkins, a beloved resident of Leominster, passed away on January 10, 2025. Born in Fitchburg, on September 4, 1925, to parents Joseph and Ladwina Balducci, Cecile lived a life that was filled with generosity, thoughtfulness, and love. Cecile was a spirited woman who was known for her fun-loving attitude and playful nature.

Cecile was a dedicated employee at Bradlees shoe department until her retirement. Her hobbies included crocheting, knitting, embroidery, and cooking spaghetti and making her famous fudge. She also loved playing cards and going to the casino. Cecile and her late husband, Alan Hawkins, shared many fond memories boating on Lake Whalom with their children. Cecile enjoyed traveling with her family throughout her life. She was a devoted wife and mother, always generous to her family in time and deed. As the saying goes, "A mother's heart is a patchwork of love," and Cecile embodied this sentiment in every aspect of her life. She will be deeply missed by all that knew her. 

Cecile is survived by her two daughters Tammy Behringer and her husband Robert Behringer of Westminster MA, Cheryl Boyd, and her husband Michael of Scappose Oregon, her sister Violet Pero of Staten Island NY, and her brother George Balducci of Boise Idaho. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Ladwina Balducci; husband, Alan Hawkins; sisters, Margaret Guy, Lillian Hamel, Rita Quinn; and brother, Joseph J Balducci, daughters, Linda Gagnon and Alanda Kostopoulos; son-in-law, Charles Kostopoulos; grandson, Brett Royale; and great-granddaughter, Cecilia Dunn. 

Her love for her family, especially all of her grandchildren, Kimberly Dunn, Alan Gagnon, Nicole Mathe , Chuck Kostopoulos, James Shiels , Alex Brinkert, Ginger Marie Brinkert, and 11 great-grandchildren, and her 3 great great grandchildren was immeasurable. 

In keeping with Cecile's generous and thoughtful nature, we encourage you to share your memories and upload photos to the memorial page  https://my.gather.app/remember/cecile-hawkins to celebrate her life.

A funeral mass will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025 at 9:30 am in St. Leo's Church, 108 Main St., Leominster. Burial will be private and there are no calling hours.

Brandon Funeral Home, 305 Wanoosnoc Road, Fitchburg, is directing arrangements.