Bertrand HawkinsAfter battling a lengthy and rare illness, Bertrand Elliott Hawkins passed away on July 1, 2017, at home with his family at his bedside. He was born on December 22, 1948, in Washington, DC to Madeline and Robert Hawkins. Bert spent his life serving abused, neglected and needy children. For many years, Bert was the Executive Director of Residential Youth Services in Alexandria, Virginia. He also worked in the field as a consultant, traveling the country conducting peer reviews. He is survived by his wife, Ella Gifford-Hawkins, son Rhamad Hawkins McNeil, granddaughters Nevaeh Hawkins and Sahriya Hawkins McNeil, brother Morris Hawkins, sisters Valencia and Marilyn Hawkins and many other beloved family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his grandmother, Ethel Dare, and his son, Okasha Hawkins. A celebration of life will be held sometime in September. To read more visit www.VesseyFuneralService.com.