Audra Hawkins James

SALEMBURG

Mrs. Audra Rosmae Hawkins James, 92, passed to her eternal home on August 23, 2023. Audra, or more lovingly known as Nana, was born in Russell County, Virginia on July 17, 1931, to Foster and Audie Hawkins.

Audra was raised the third child out of four during the depression era. She often shared that even though times were tough, they had everything they needed, and she had a delightful childhood making mischief with her sisters and brother. The Hawkins family placed much emphasis on education and Audra graduated with a teaching degree from Longwood College in Farmville, Virginia and was a member of the Delta Zeta Sorority while there.

Audra met Randolph James while teaching high school in Surry, Virginia. The two were married on Dec. 21, 1952, and had 64 loving years together. Audra was a devoted wife and mother who loved God, her family, her friends and her community. She was an active member and made Roseboro First Baptist Church her focal point for spiritual direction, teaching Sunday School and being active in the WMU. Audra’s love of learning and teaching spanned thirty years while educating students in Virginia, Pennsylvania, and finally settling into Lakewood High School in Salemburg where the James family made their home. She enjoyed seeing former students and co-workers and fondly remembering teaching moments. Audra found her most pleasurable moments spending time with family and friends or settling in with a good book.

Audra is survived by her four children, Barbara Ellen Noble (Sam), Randi Kelly (Randy), Rosemary Simpson (Telfair) and Robert James; six grandchildren, Audra Leigh Rankin (Hunter), Hunter Noble (Remy), Wilson Simpson, Coleman Simpson, Madelyn James and Cooper James; four great-grandchildren, Adelaide and Ellen Rankin; Hunt and Jack Noble; one sister-in-law, Margaret J. Oliver; and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the devoted and compassionate caretakers from The Gardens of Roseboro who provided loving care and kindness to Audra during her time with them.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, August 27, at Roseboro First Baptist Church, with a family visitation following in the fellowship hall. A private service will be held at the family gravesite in Virginia at a later date.

Friends and family will be received in the home at 848 Country Club Road, Salemburg, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Roseboro First Baptist Church, 3720 S. Salemburg Highway, Roseboro, N.C. 28382, earmarked for Baptist Children’s Home in North Carolina.

Services are entrusted by Butler Funeral Home of Roseboro.