Ramsay Kennemur Hawkins died peacefully on May 12, 2026, from complications of a stroke. He also had advanced pancreatic cancer.

A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held for Ramsay at 4 p.m. on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center. A barbeque meal will be provided following the service.

Ramsay was born to Dorothy Latimer and Thomas Ramsay Hawkins in Greenwood, SC, in 1956. His father worked in the dairy business, beginning on his father’s farm and finally Coburg Farm near Bamberg, SC, which was Ramsay’s favorite childhood home.

“Ken” to family, and Ramsay to friends and co-workers, he was very proud of his long career in chemical production, specifically pharmaceutical manufacturing. Ramsay started working for Ethel Corporation in Orangeburg, SC, as a young adult. The plant changed ownership a few times, including to Albemarle and the SI Group; Ramsay worked there continually for 42 years. Early on he was an hourly Operator but his self-taught knowledge of organic chemistry led to many promotions. Later titles included “Sr. Operations Specialist” and “Sr. Training Specialist.” He retired in 2019 to Marshallberg, NC.

Ramsay could fix anything as he understood how things are put together and work. Most neighbors and friends consulted with him on at least one project. His other interests included cooking– with a specialty of delicious pulled pork barbeque, ribs, and wings– and stained glass. He became a Ham Radio operator in 2009, General Class License, volunteering annually for many years for the Tour de Cure in South Carolina. He was part of The Coastal Carolina Emergency Network.

As an adult, Ramsay spent many happy hours with his father shrimping and crabbing in the waters around Charleston, SC. His love of the water led to choosing his retirement spot on the coast of North Carolina, “Down East.” There, he enjoyed watching boats and sunsets from the porch, spoiling his dogs, and evening golf cart rides through the neighborhood.

Ramsay and his wife, Linda, met in Orangeburg 14 years ago and celebrated 12 years of marriage two days before his death. They traveled to many countries over the years and especially enjoyed Costa Rica, Italy, National Parks in the west and midwest, and most recently the Normandy Coast of France. In character, Ramsay was fascinated with the techniques used to build the ancient structures as well as his favorite pastime, Segway tours.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Rockholt Hawkins; sons, Matthew Hawkins and Thomas Hawkins (Nicole) of Minnesota; and stepchildren, Marie Walters, Alex Walters (Hannah), and Bailie Walters (Tj); and grandchildren, Katelyn, Sam, Carter, Gabriel, Henry, Noah, Heidi, and Bennett. Three sisters also survive him, Kathi Dunn (Glenn), Beth Bradley (Connally), and Susan Kelly (Mark).

Donations in Ramsay’s honor may be made to your favorite animal rescue group.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Crematory in Morehead City, NC.