George Wayland Hawkes

December 13, 1946 – October 18, 2026

George Wayland Hawkes, 79, of Standish, Maine, passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026, just shy of his 80th birthday.

Born in Westbrook, Maine, on December 13, 1946, George was the son of the late Arthur Wayland Hawkes and Edna (Skillins) Hawkes. He grew up in Westbrook and graduated from Westbrook High School in 1965.

On March 5, 1971, George married the love of his life, Joan (Flanders) Hawkes. In 1977, they moved to Standish, where George would make his home for nearly 50 years.

Together, they built a life full of family, adventures, and laughter. Following his retirement, George and Joan enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, eventually purchasing a second home in Gulfport, Mississippi. They also shared a love of visiting casinos, where they enjoyed spending time together and trying their luck.

George spent his career working for New England Telephone and its successor companies, retiring from Verizon in 2003 after many years of service.

Anyone who knew George knew he had a quick wit, a sarcastic sense of humor, and an uncanny ability to deliver a perfectly timed remark. He was friendly, kindhearted, and genuinely enjoyed talking with people. Even during his numerous hospital stays at Northern Light Mercy Hospital, he developed warm relationships with the nurses who cared for him, always treating them with kindness and, more often than not, a little humor.

George looked forward to his monthly gatherings at the Stockhouse with his high school friends, a tradition that remained important to him. He enjoyed his most recent luncheon just prior to his passing.

After facing serious health challenges in February 2023, George continued to persevere through countless medical appointments, treatments, and iron infusions. All of which he would have gladly skipped if given the choice. Through it all, he maintained his humor and continued making time for the people and traditions he loved.

Above all, George loved his family. Whether known as Dad, Grandpa, or Dappa, he held a special place in the lives of those closest to him.

George is survived by his three daughters: Christine Heath and her sons, Brayden and Logan; Loretta McHugh and her children, Margaret, James, and Adeline; and Samantha Clark, her husband, Matthew, and their daughters, Olivia and Amelia. He is also survived by his brother, Richard Hawkes, and his wife, Lynn, and their children, Dana, Darryl, and Faye.

George also leaves behind many cousins, extended family members, and cherished friends, including longtime friendships formed during his school years and throughout his career with the telephone company. These lasting connections brought him much happiness and remained an important part of his life.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Joan, who passed away on November 22, 2009. Her passing left a void in George’s life that time never truly filled. Though he continued to enjoy his family, friendships, and adventures, he never stopped missing her or looking forward to the day they would be reunited.

George leaves behind a lifetime of memories, plenty of stories, and more than a few sarcastic remarks that his family will undoubtedly continue repeating for years to come.

After nearly 17 years apart, George and Joan are finally together again.

A special and heartfelt thank you to George’s wonderful neighbors, Billy and Bobbi Jo Call, for their friendship, kindness, and unwavering willingness to lend a helping hand. Knowing George had such caring neighbors nearby meant more to his family than words can express. Their thoughtfulness and generosity will never be forgotten.

Arrangements for a celebration of life will be announced at a later date.