When Julia Hawkins passed away last month at the remarkable age of 108, it marked the end of an era. Hawkins, a Louisiana native, had become a celebrated champion runner at the age of 101, inspiring people around the world with her boundless energy and zest for life. But for one person, her death held a deeper, more personal significance – the loss of a connection to a cherished childhood memory.

Honoring a Shared History and Enduring Legacy

Childhood Bonds and Lasting Impressions

Julia Hawkins and the author's father grew up together in the small town of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, forging a bond that would last a lifetime. As the last living person who knew the author's father in his youth, Hawkins' passing marked the end of a personal connection to a cherished memory. The author fondly recalls Hawkins' recollections of her father, describing him as "such a gentleman" and "so smart" – qualities that had been noted by many others who knew him.

Shared Experiences and a Rural Upbringing

Hawkins and the author's father shared more than just a childhood – they both grew up in a time when the country was largely rural, and life outdoors was a common part of the human experience. Hawkins spent her youth helping to run a small resort at Ponchatoula Beach, while the author's father worked construction and maintained a vegetable garden. These formative experiences shaped their characters and instilled in them a deep appreciation for the natural world.

A Lifelong Passion for the Outdoors

Hawkins' love for the outdoors was a defining aspect of her life. She became a tireless gardener and naturalist, helping botanical artist Margaret Stones collect specimens for her paintings of Louisiana plants. Hawkins' own acre lot was a testament to her green thumb, boasting 60 trees and an abundance of diverse flora. Even in her later years, Hawkins remained an avid runner and bicyclist, keeping her connected to the natural world she cherished.

Savoring the Moments

What struck the author most about Hawkins was not just the remarkable longevity of her life, but the quality of it. Hawkins seemed to savor every moment, embracing the world around her with a sense of wonder and joy. Whether it was showing off a prized bromeliad or marveling at the changing foliage of her ginkgo trees, Hawkins' enthusiasm for life was infectious.

A Legacy of Inspiration

The author's final visit with Hawkins in 2021, when she was 105 years old, left a lasting impression. Hawkins' unwavering spirit and zest for life, even in the face of advancing age, served as a powerful reminder to the author to embrace the present and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. In the wake of Hawkins' passing, the author is inspired to honor her memory by going out, breathing deeply, and seeing what the world has to offer.