Arlene Hawkins

Arlene Hawkins, 80, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of Aug. 18, 2016. Arlene was born in Huntley, Montana to Reuben and Mollie Seibel. During her teenage years, Arlene enjoyed tap dance and teaching tumbling in the city recreational program and attended high school at Billings Senior High. Arlene met Cecil Hawkins and they were married in Hardin, Montana on June 25, 1962. They were best friends, and each other's loving support for over 54 years. Arlene and Cecil spent most of their lives on their ranch east of Billings, where they raised their 5 children and several foster children. In addition to ranching, Arlene drove school bus, and worked as a baker at Butler's Kitchen where she made pies from scratch and was very involved in both 4-H leadership and church activities.

In 1986 they moved to Oklahoma City, OK, where Arlene attended and graduated from nursing school. While Cecil pastored, Arlene served as the Pastor's wife, a role that was an example for all and as a nurse at the Children's Hospital. In 1993, Arlene and Cecil returned to Montana where she worked as a nurse for Rocky Mountain Home Health.

Arlene loved gardening and canning. Her beautiful flowers, full pantry of canned goods and grandchildren were her pride and joy. Arlene was the epitome of a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, friend and Christian; always quick to offer a helping hand, listening ear or share her faith in Jesus Christ. Above all else, she loved the Lord, her family and starting her day with reading her Bible. Arlene was a devoted loving wife to Cecil for 54 years. Arlene will be deeply missed by many.

Arlene is survived by her mother Molly Seibel, husband Cecil, daughter Karen (Ben) Blonski, daughter Verale (Dave) Hall, son Tim (Tami) Hawkins, grandchildren (Steffany, Stacy, Dawn, Shawn, Rik, Jade, Ben, Taylen, and Tacie) and 11 great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her father, siblings, son Danny (Patti) and daughter Christine.

Celebration of her life will be held on Thursday Aug. 24, at 12 pm at Laurel First Baptist Church (400 7th Avenue Laurel, MT). Burial service will follow at 2 pm in Yellowstone County National Veterans Cemetery also in Laurel.