Obituaries 12/9/21

Ronald Gordon Wilkes
Ronald Gordon Wilkes, Sr. 79
(July 20, 1942 – November 14, 2021)
With his family by his side, Ronnie passed into peace on Sunday, November 14, 2021 and now is in the presence of God. Ronnie was born in Burlington, North Carolina on July 20, 1942. In 1955, his family moved to Green Cove Springs, where he graduated from Clay High School in 1960. Ronnie then furthered his education at the University of Florida, ultimately earned his bachelor’s degree from Jacksonville University, and received his Master’s degree in Education at the University of North Florida.
From 1967-2005, Ronnie served the education system in Clay County as a math teacher, Dean, Assistant Principal, and Vice Principal. Ronnie became the first Vice Principal at Ridgeview Junior High School and then helped open Ridgeview High school. Ronnie was widely respected by students, faculty, and administration during his 39 years of service. Ronnie ended his teaching career at Ridgeview High School as Vice Principal in 2005.
After purchasing property together near Penney farms, Ronnie and his brother William discovered their love for ranching, which they continued together for many years. The same passion for ranching continues with his children Ronnie, Jr., and Meghan. Along with his passion for ranching, Ronnie also enjoyed golf, cooking, and rooting on his beloved Florida Gators. Ronnie was known for his wit, humor, and playful antics.
Ronnie was proceeded in death by his Father Floyd Wilkes, Mother Ruth Wilkes, Brother William Wilkes, Brother James Wilkes and Nephew Scott Wilkes.
Ronnie is survived by his loving wife of 40 years Michelle, daughter Meghan Lasher (Kyle), Son Ronnie, Jr. (Leann), Granddaughter Katelyn, Sister Gail Roberts (Gerald), Sister-in-law Delores Wilkes, Sister-in-law Sherri Wilkes, Mother-in-law Nancy Metzger, Sister-in-law LeAnn Matlock (Lemoyne), Brother-in-law Robert J Metzger (Erika), numerous nieces and nephews, and the man he loved like another son, Eugene Jenkins.
Visitation at Russell Baptist Church was on Thursday, December 2, 2:00, services at 3 p.m., and Reception followed in the Fellowship Hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Haven Foundation, 4200 NW 90th Blvd., Gainesville, FL, 32606.
Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL  32043.  Family and friends may share their condolences at: www.RHRFH.com 904-284-7720

Elizabeth Johnson Partin
Mrs. Elizabeth (Liz/Beth) Johnson Partin peacefully passes away Wednesday, December 1, 2021, at the age of 87, surrounded by her loving daughter, husband, and Rascal the cat, at Cypress Village, Jacksonville, Florida. Elizabeth will be interned at Jacksonville Memory Gardens during a private, family ceremony. Elizabeth was born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Widow of LCDR USN Robert Johnson, preceded in death by son SSGT USMC Gregory Johnson, survived by spouse James Partin, daughter Gerilyn Johnson Roden (Edward), sister Deanna House (Robert), plus many loving stepchildren and grandchildren.
At a young age, Elizabeth left the cold and “permanently” moved to Hawaii, until she met her USN pilot where she was married and whisked off to adventurous locations, with two children in tow. After her husband’s untimely death, she opened Park Avenue Florist in Orange Park. Shortly thereafter, life started to get back to normal, her USMC son died. She found peace in dancing everything from ballroom to hula, where she met her current husband James, enjoying life, and rescuing every kitty that came her way.
She was a generous, kind, extremely witty soul, and fun mother, grandmother, sister, wife, and friend. She will be sorely missed, but now, is at peace.

James W. Taylor
James W. Taylor of Orange Park, Florida, passed away on Nov. 28, 2021 from a battle with cancer. James was born on Feb 28, 1961 in Deland Florida, to parents William H and Joyce M. Taylor. He is preceded in death by his mother and son. James E. is survived by father William H, son Timothy, daughter Jessica, Brother William E. (Lorna). Services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to American Cancer Society and Community Hospice Hardlow Center 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257.

Neal Hawkinson
Neal Hawkinson, a long-time resident of Duval and Clay counties, died on December 1, 2021.  Neal was born in Chicago, Illinois on September 16, 1929, to Lillian Kilberg and Alfred Hawkinson.  He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Norma; his daughter Catherine Guevarra; his sons Jim and Bob Hawkinson; his 11 grandchildren; and his 3 great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his brother John Hawkinson. 
Neal was a veteran of the Korean War and served in the Navy at Green Cove Springs Naval Station.  He retired from NARF/NADEP in Jacksonville, Florida, after 32 years of civilian service as an electrician, planner, and estimator, and finally as a Mechanical Branch Head.  Neal was selected Federal Manager of the Year in 1984 for his exemplary service as a leader and manager in the United States Federal Government. 
He was a past Grand Knight and charter member of the Orange Park and Green Cove Springs Knights of Columbus. His talents were many: he was an avid fisherman, boater, marksman and skeet shooter. His family and friends appreciated his seeming ability to build or repair just about anything. Neal will be remembered for his caring, generous, and friendly spirit. He was a loving husband and father, a wonderful mentor who enjoyed sharing his skills and knowhow with his children and grandchildren, and a great buddy to his friends.
Please sign the family’s online guestbook at www.broadusraines.com
Arrangements are under the care of Broadus-Raines Funeral Home, 501 Spring St., Green Cove Springs, FL 32043. (904) 284-4000