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James "Bill" William Hawthorne

July 11, 1920 — October 7, 2014

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Forest Park West Cemetery

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James "Bill" William Hawthorne

SHREVEPORT, LA - Funeral services for James William "Bill" Hawthorne will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 10, 2014 at Rose-Neath's Southside Chapel, 2500 Southside Drive. Interment will follow in Forest Park West Cemetery. Officiating will be Deacon Bill Roche. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until service time Friday at the funeral home.

Bill died on October 6, 2014 at the age of 94. He was born Burkburnett, Texas on July 11, 1920 to the late James Franklin and Mary Lucille Hawthorne. After graduating high school in 1939, he began his professional career with the Kansas City Southern Railway Company. However, his employment with the railroad was put on hiatus as he courageously served his country during World War II. While in the Army Air Force he attained the rank of Sergeant and received numerous decorations and citations including the American Theater Service Metal, Victory Metal and the Good Conduct Metal. After being honorably discharged from the military in 1946, Bill returned to the railroad where he remained a dedicated employee for 49 years.

An intelligent and hardworking man, his crowning achievement was the loving and respectful bond he and his wife of 52 years, Virginia Priest Hawthorne, built together. While their union did not produce children, Uncle Bill and Aunt Jeannie will always be blessed with the unconditional love of numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Beulah. Mr. Hawthorne is survived by his devoted wife, Virginia, and extended family members.

The family would like to thank St. Joseph's Catholic Church for their love and support. Special thanks to the staff of the V.A. hospital and Nurse Care for the professional care he received. In addition, the family expresses their appreciation to family friend and nurse, Evelina.

Pallbearers will be Craig Martin, Anthony Priest, Chris Spano, Brandon Atkins, Brandon Smith, and Billy Meshell. Serving as an honorary pallbearer will be Dominick Priest.

Rose-Neath Southside

2500 Southside Drive

318-687-1256

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