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Johanne J. (Gobeil) Hawkes, 67, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, after a brief and courageous battle with cancer, entering into the loving arms of Jesus at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts.
Born on October 10, 1958, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, Johanne was the beloved daughter of the late Marcelle (Remy) Gobeil and the late Lucien Gobeil.
Johanne met her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Eugene “Gene” Hawkes, in Byfield when she was just 13 years old. The two later attended Whittier Vocational Technical High School together and, shortly after graduating, married and built a beautiful life and family filled with love, laughter, and devotion.
Johanne was the proud and loving mother of Eugene “Geno” Hawkes, 34, and Kayla Hawkes-Pearson, 31, and cherished mother-in-law to Matthew Pearson, 33. Nothing brought her more joy than being “Meme’re” to her beloved grandchildren, Brody Hawkes, 12, and Presley Pearson, 6 months, who meant the absolute world to her.
Johanne was truly the heart and soul of her family. She loved deeply, gave endlessly, and always put others before herself. She had the biggest heart and would do anything for anyone in need. Her kindness, warmth, and unconditional love touched everyone lucky enough to know her.
She will be sadly missed by her loving extended family, including her sisters and brothers: Louise Morais and her husband Paul of Hampton, NH; Guy Gobeil and his wife Sue of Beverly, MA; the late Michael Gobeil of Clearwater, FL; Christian Gobeil and his wife Debbie of Bradford, MA; Linda Brandolini and her husband Bill of Atkinson, NH; and Daniel Gobeil of Atkinson, NH. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Johanne was an avid reader who found peace and happiness in the mountains, especially during trips up north to North Conway, a place she truly loved. She will be remembered for her wonderful sense of humor, silliness, and ability to make others laugh even during difficult times. She had a heart of gold and would give the shirt off her back to anyone who needed it.
Though her family’s hearts are broken, they take comfort in knowing she is reunited with those she loved and watching over them always.
Family and friends may call from 4:00 to 7:00 PM on Monday May 18, 2026 at the Twomey, LeBlanc, & Conte Funeral Home 193 High St. Newburyport, MA 01950. Services and burial will be Private.
For directions or to offer online condolences please visit www.tlcfuneralhome.com
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Johanne J. (Gobeil) Hawkes, please visit our floral store.