Jerome Anthony Hawkins Jr.

Jerome Anthony Hawkins Jr., lovingly known as “Bullet,” of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the age of 27. Jerome was born on November 18, 1998, to Jerome Hawkins Sr. and Lori Wells. Like his only son, Jerome Sr.’s life was also taken at an early age when Jerome Jr. was just two years old.

Jerome understood salvation at a young age and knew the importance of having a relationship with God. While in middle school, he was baptized, committing his life to Christ.

As a child, Jerome was exceptionally athletic and developed a lifelong love for sports, including football, track, skiing, and basketball. His phenomenal speed earned him the nickname “Bullet,” a name that followed him with pride. Jerome graduated in 2017 from Blue Springs South High School as an honors student and later attended Missouri Western State University.

Shortly after beginning college, Jerome’s life took an unexpected turn when he began to experience depression and unmanageable behavioral challenges. He was later diagnosed with schizophrenia. For a few years, Jerome struggled to understand these changes and at times turned to street drugs in an attempt to cope with his fear and confusion.

Despite these challenges, Jerome demonstrated tremendous courage and resilience. He reclaimed control of his life and accepted the help he needed. Through the support of numerous community organizations, family, and ongoing treatment, Jerome made remarkable strides and experienced a renewed sense of hope and stability.

Recently, Jerome proudly earned a Manufacturing Certification and celebrated this achievement with joy and confidence. He was also faithfully attending First Regular Baptist Church under the leadership of his uncle, Pastor Paul Hawkins, where he served the Lord with devotion.

Jerome was preceded in death by his father, Jerome Hawkins Sr., and his grandfathers, John Sanders, Roy Tucker III, and James Davis.

He leaves to cherish his memory his parents, Daniel and Lori Wells; his sister, Taylor Wells, his brother, Damarion Bennett; and his grandmothers, Brenda Davis, Linda Sanders, and Michelle Bridges. He is also survived by a host of uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends who loved him deeply.

Jerome’s life, though brief, was filled with faith, love, resilience, and purpose. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and cherished him.