Willie was a dedicated and hardworking individual who spent his career as an auto salesman before retiring. His love for music, especially oldies but goodies, filled his days with joy, and he had a passion for watching basketball, always cheering for his favorite teams.

He was educated at Meyer Levin Junior High School and Samuel J Tilden High School, and went on to further his studies at Westminster University. Willie’s life was marked by his strong connections with family and friends, offering wisdom and kindness to those around him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Carrie Hawes and Willie J Hawes Sr., his siblings George Mack, Irma Imani Taylor, Ethel Taylor, Bloneva Clark, and Evelyn Harris, and his beloved daughter, Carrena Orum-Bush.

Willie leaves behind a loving family to cherish his memory: his sister Karyl Hawes (Jones), his son Sterling Hawes, and his daughter Shauna Orum-Robinson. He was a proud grandfather to Brooklyn Bush, Eric Bush Jr., Robert (Bethany) Austin III, Infinity Brown, Maques Brown, and Zyarie Orum, and a great-grandfather to Khairy Richardson, Kadence Jenkins, and Kassidy Jenkins. His extended family includes a host of nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and grand-nephews. Among them, Cynthia Parker and Lisa Nelson held a special place in his heart, providing unwavering support and care during his time in Virginia.

Willie’s life was enriched by the friendships he formed, including a cherished bond with James “Jim-Jim” Williams and fond memories shared with the entire Tilden High School basketball team.

A memorial service will be held in Brownsville, Brooklyn, at a later date to celebrate the life of Willie James Hawes Jr., a man whose warmth and spirit will be missed by all who knew him.