Paul A. Hawkinson
Paul A. Hawkinson passed away on July 8th, 2025.
Paul was predeceased by his wife of 49 years, Phyllis Fleck Hawkinson.
Lovingly remembered by his daughter Kimberly Hawkinson Hellyar (Mark), granddaughter Theresa Hellyar Lauber (Sam) and great grandson Brody.
“Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used and worn out and loudly proclaiming “Wow! What a ride!”~Hunter S. Thompson
A celebration of life will be held at a future date.
An excellent and recommended poem by Longfellow entitled “A Psalm of Life” speaks of what we can be reminded of from great men through the lines “and departing, leave behind us, footprints on the sands of time.” It may be argued that we all do that by our interactions with others, but Paul Hawkinson did much more.
Following an extensive career in the executive search and recruiting field, he founded a newsletter entitled The Fordyce Letter which became for 35 years, the most widely read print and online publication in the entire industry. Throughout that time, as a result of his personal knowledge, wisdom and exposing others to the best business knowledge of others, the entire industry took a giant step forward as a direct result of the material presented. Untold numbers of people benefited professionally from Paul Hawkinson and The Fordyce Letter plus his several books.
“Footprints on the sands of time” does not begin to describe it. And we were personal friends for over 40 years. It was an honor to know him.
I am so very sorry of your loss😥please let us know any arrangements. Just 1 day before my precious godmother’s birthday ❤️oh what a party they will have!! I am sure my mom has a “purple Jesus” in her hand to welcome him home❤️
Paul, as a person, as well as through his endeavors, offered hope, inspiration, & motivation. He did this with everyone he encountered.
He was a guiding light, a beacon of joy, with an ever-present pleasant demeanor, and always wickedly witty with written words.
I first learned about Paul around 1993 when I was with my small company I had started a few years prior. I had purchased a new software program, that promised to ‘distribute your press release’ to a more targeted, national audience instead of the local newspapers. While experimenting with the program, I selected a few boxes that included ‘monthly publications’ and “recruiting” and off it went. I had no idea if anyone would take note.
Within an hour or so I heard from some guy named Paul Hawkinson who mentioned he might be interested in the full version for his monthly newsletter. Monthly Newsletter? For recruiting? How did I not know this?
Not only did Paul publish that first article, (after a few requested edits) but we became friends and collaborated on many dozens if not 100s of articles, stories, special front cover features over the next 15 years or so.
Paul as a person, and through his endeavors and publications, provided inspiration during some of the most tumultuous and difficult years of my career and family.
I know he had similar impact on thousands of others as well through his publications, special bulletins, books, etc.
Rest In Peace Paul.
This is a truly “lighthearted “ comment for such a successful man…but I have to add my thoughts. As a fabulous high school (and early college) sweetheart, Paul was always thoughtful, kind, and fun! He loved to buy me cashmere sweaters…the ultimate at that time! I now have Closing on Objections to read and I love having his picture on it🥰! It is easy to understand why he was so successful. I know you will rest in peace, sweet man.
I know his middle name is Alan, because I called him Paul Alan a lot. But can’t remember spelling! Alan or Allen? Anybody know??