John Francis Hawkey, 61, passed away peacefully Friday after a long illness, with his family at his bedside. He was born on September 11, 1958 to the late Richard and Marion Hawkey and attended Plainedge Public Schools. He was named for his dear "Pop Pop," John Francis Riordan, and was loved by his five siblings as a sweet, gregarious, and imaginative child who grew to be a principled businessman and friend with a heart of gold.

Starting his career right after high school with E.F.Hutton under the mentorship of his uncle, Robert Hawkey, he later owned his own brokerage firm, and served a term as chairman of the Floor Broker's Association. In later years, John ran his own woodworking shop, worked for Centre Street Construction, and made dozens of friends bartending in his beloved Brooklyn. John loved country music, especially Anita Carter; car racing, especially NASCAR; Brooklyn, especially his friends from Bay Ridge; baseball and football, especially the Jets and Mets.

John was the ultimate "people person," enlivening every gathering with stories and the occasional practical joke; he had a way of lightening stressful situations with with his ability to make people laugh. Yet, on the serious side he was also known for his professional integrity in  business, his steadfast support of friends, and his boundless generosity.

He will be sorely missed by his brother Richard (and wife Maryanne), his sisters Mary (and husband Tom), Regina (and husband Jeff), Marian, and Rosemary. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Francis, Elsie, Ellie, Rina, Avi, Grayce, and Adam and by five great-nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by both of his dear parents.

"Now cracks a noble heart. – Good night, sweet prince, And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!" - Shakespeare