So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy (John 16:22.) Strong in faith, Lynnda Hawkins believed in the Lord’s promises. Lynnda “Lynn” Irene (Skatzes) Hawkins, 78, of Mansfield, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2025, at Woodside Village Care Center in Morrow County, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Lynn received the heavenly prize she had always hoped for—a place with Christ in eternal peace.
Lynn was born on February 9, 1947, in Marion, Ohio, to Fred and Margaret Dora (McClanahan) Skatzes. She was a woman of unwavering faith, boundless love, and quiet strength. She was a devoted wife to the late Michael B. Hawkins, with whom she shared many wonderful years. Their love story was one of deep commitment, mutual respect, and shared laughter. Together, they created a home filled with music, faith, and unconditional love.
Lynda is survived by her son, Kevin (Jessica) Hawkins; granddaughters, Michelle (John) Daugherty and Stephanie (Will) Hummel: great-grandchildren Maddison Campbell, Tori Tackett and William Hummell; sisters Michele (James) Keller and Diana (Ron) Bender; as well as nieces, nephews and extended family; and lifelong friend Deborah Greves.
She was preceded in death by her husband Michael Hawkins; sister Sharon Bradley and her parents Fred and Margaret Skatzes.
She was passionate about her family and spoiled her grandkids and great grandkids. Her grandchildren were her greatest joy, and she never missed a moment to celebrate their achievements, support their dreams, and simply be present for them. Whether it was attending school events or cheering at sports games, Lynnda was always there, her pride shining through.
She was a life-long Ohio State fan and her husband was in The Ohio State University marching band, where he dotted the “I” in Script Ohio in 1962 and 1963. When she met someone, she always told them her name, Lynnda, with a Y and she loved the color purple.
She dedicated much of her professional life to helping others as a scheduling coordinator for Central Star, home healthcare. Her work reflected her deep compassion and desire to ensure people received the care they needed. Lynnda had a special way of making life brighter. She loved the color purple, finding joy in its vibrancy and warmth. She was a woman of simple yet profound joys—music, heartfelt conversations, and the sound of laughter filling her home.
Lynnda loved her many pets…too many to mention.
Beyond her devotion to family, Lynnda was a woman of many passions. She was a lifelong learner and instilled in those around her a love for knowledge and curiosity. She was an avid bible reader, ready to share her latest discovery. Her love for education extended to encouraging her grandchildren to explore their interests, always reminding them to pursue their dreams fearlessly.
Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devoted member of Mansfield First Assembly, and lived her beliefs every day, offering kindness, grace, and wisdom to all she met. She had a way of making those around her feel seen and valued, always offering a listening ear, heartfelt advice, or a reassuring hug. She believed in the power of prayer and often reminded her loved ones to look for God’s blessings, even in difficult times.
Lynn was such a gentle spirit. Ever the volunteer, she sought ways to help out; always a smile to share. She found joy in community service and friendship. Her kind heart touched many through Fun in the Park in Mansfield’s South Park on Brinkerhoff where she helped provide our community with a lot of fun as well as learning experiences for all ages.
In Lynn’s memory, memorial donations may be made to benefit South Park in Mansfield (make checks payable to the City of Mansfield Parks and Recreation, in the memo write: South Park Summer Program). Lynn was so passionate and dedicated to volunteering at South Park.
Snyder Funeral Homes, Lexington Avenue Chapel, is honored to serve Lynn’s family. To share memories or offer condolences, please visit SnyderFuneralHomes.com
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Homes
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com