Funeral service for Minister Betiale Leander Hawkins Sr. 62 of Killeen, TX will be held Thursday, August 27, 2026, 11:30 a.m. at Christian House of Prayer in Copperas Cove, TX. Burial with Military Honors will follow the service at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery.

Viewing will be held one hour prior to the service (10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.) at the church.

Minister Hawkins passed away, August 9, 2026, in Harker Heights, TX.

Minister Betiale Leander Hawkins Sr. was born on February 17, 1964, in Utica, New York, to William Hawkins Sr. and Annie (Robinson) Hawkins.

From an early age, Minister Hawkins demonstrated the qualities that would come to define his life and ministry. He possessed remarkable strength, courage, and compassion for others, along with a profound appreciation for the dignity and value of human life. These qualities were evident throughout his life and reflected the purpose, character, and spirit with which he was blessed. His life was profoundly transformed when he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior, beginning a lifelong journey of faith, service, and devotion to God. Of the many titles he faithfully embraced, “Son of God” was the one he cherished and honored above all others.

His faith in God, words of wisdom, mentorship, and fatherly spirit touched and transformed the lives of his family, friends, and the community he so graciously served. His presence left an indelible impression on the lives of everyone who had the privilege of sharing time and space with such an extraordinary individual. His legacy of family values, love, courage, and leadership will live on eternally in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, especially his most cherished gift his family.

At the young age of 13, he met the woman who would become the love of his life and his beloved wife of more than 42 years. She describes the love they shared as her “kiss from God,” a precious and divine gift that embodied God’s grace and reflected the profound love, unwavering devotion, and enduring bond they were blessed to share throughout their life together. From this cherished union came the blessing of two children, Betiale Hawkins II and Akyilah Hawkins Toney, who became a lasting testament to the love and legacy they built together as a family.

Minister Hawkins honorably served his country in the United States Army, where he received numerous awards and commendations. He also faithfully served his church and community. In 1985, he became a member of the Christian House of Prayer, where he demonstrated a longstanding commitment to service through his involvement in various ministries. He subsequently received his ministerial license, further affirming his dedication to ministry and spiritual leadership. He also made significant contributions to his community through his dedicated service as a Client Acquisition Specialist, a role he held for many years prior to his retirement.

Minister Betiale Leander Hawkins Sr. transitioned to his heavenly reward on August 9, 2026. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 42 years, Constance (Mitchell) Hawkins; his son, Betiale Hawkins II (Emmelinemarie); his daughter, Akyilah Toney (Kevin); his grandchildren, Julian, Isaiah, and Tahiry; his siblings, Marie Collins (Michael), William “June” Hawkins (Luz), and Rachel Alexander (Kevin); along with a host of loving family members and friends.

Minister Hawkins was preceded in death by his beloved parents, William Hawkins Sr. and Annie L. Hawkins, and his brothers, Alexander Hawkins and Slyvester Hawkins. His life and legacy remain a lasting testament to the love, faith, wisdom, and cherished memories he shared with his family, friends, and community.

As we mourn the loss of Minister Betiale Hawkins’s physical presence, we find comfort in the assurance of God’s Word. Second Corinthians 5:8 reminds us, in part, “to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” Though our hearts grieve because we can no longer embrace him here on earth, we find peace in knowing that he is now rejoicing in the presence of the Lord, resting in the eternal reward promised to those who place their faith in Him.