Ruth Estes Hawkins was born August 8, 1942 in Childers, Texas. She was the oldest of three children born to Miniola and James Estes.Ruth married Larry Hawkins on June 21, 1963 in Electra, Texas. Together, they lived in Iowa Park, Texas. In 1966, 1971, and 1977, their family grew to include a daughter, Stacy Lynn, and 2 sons, Thomas Olan, and Darrell Wayne Hawkins. In 1975, the family moved to Midland, Texas.Ruth was caring mother to her children. While she often volunteered for Brownies, PTA, and Boy Scouts, her most passionate service was with the Robert E. Lee \Mighty Rebel\ Band. For many years, she handed out water and apples to band members during football games, placed color guard flags on the sidelines, and did just about anything that the band required for half-time and contest shows. Ruth thought of each band member as her own child. Maroon and white were her favorite colors, and she loved her Rebels.Ruth is survived by her husband, Larry Hawkins, her daughter and son-in-law, Stacy and Jim Leach, her sons Thomas and Darrell Hawkins, and three grandchildren, Emily and Max Leach and Shelby Hawkins.Visitation with the family will be on March 29, 2018 from 5-7pm at Nalley-Pickle and Welch Funeral Home.Ruth's family would like to thank Midland Memorial Hospital emergency room and 7th floor doctors and nursing staff, as well as Hospice of Midland for taking care of her. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to Hospice of Midland or the Mighty Rebel Band Booster Club.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle and Welch Funeral Home and Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.,
