James H. Hawley

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James Henry Hawley, beloved son of James and Beatrice Hawley. He was the youngest son and the heart of the five siblings. His sisters fondly referred to him often as, “Little Brother” and to them he hung the moon. He grew up and spent most of his adult years working alongside his father, uncle and cousins to build and maintain what is now known as the Heritage Farm of Holly, MI. He was a proud and loyal man full of country charm and grace. His kindness touched all who knew him. James served his country proudly during the Vietnam War and if you were willing to listen, he had much to share. He loved life, was open to new experiences and people but he especially enjoyed being with his family. He would say that the greatest event of his life was when he met his wife, Anita. She was the light of his life. Together, they settled in Argentine, Michigan and shared in the many joys of a strong, loving family. Later in life, the two resided for a time in West Virginia where his wife had been raised. He loved his time there and would often speak fondly of his experiences there. Upon returning, he spent his final years with his sister Laura. These were happy days filled with shared memories and laughter. James loved a good joke, and he would often say, “You gotta have humor!” His smile could light up a room and will be treasured always. He left us as Valentine’s Day faded but he will remain close in our hearts forever. James is preceded in death by his parents, James and Beatrice Hawley, sister Catherine Weakley and daughter Jane Gibson. He leaves behind his wife Anita Hawley; children Gwen (Floyd) Ricks, Randy (Dianne)Plumley, Susan (William) Lawhead, David Plumley and Jeffery (Brenda) Plumley; sisters Jean Taulbee, Laura Spear and Nancy (Brian) Hannigan; many adoring grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends. Funeral service will be at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at Dryer Funeral Home in Holly. Family will welcome visitors from 11AM until time of service, followed by military honors at Great Lakes National Cemetery.

James H. Hawley

June 20, 1948 - February 15, 2023