It is accompanied by intensive sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the demise of our dear friend, colleague and lifelong volunteer, Tony Hawkins MBE. Tony was not only a member of the RNLI Dover Lifeboat station – he was an incredible heart for 65 years. Their heritage is woven into a lot of clothes of the station and community, and their absence leaves a zero that will never be filled.
Tony first went through the station doors in 1960, 16 -year -old with a wide eye, ready to dedicate himself to a much larger reason than himself: saving life in the sea. What started in the form of a young calling developed quickly during the lifetime of service, devotion and bravery, which can match something and no one will ever forget. For decades, Tony was a pillar of strength, which guided the station through countless challenges and victory, always with the same unwavering commitment to the mission.
Over the years, Tony played almost every role inside the Lifeboat station. From crew members to mentor, from the noise team to senior volunteers, Tony wore several hats – each with the same dedication and a sense of duty. Whether he was breaking hard seas to save those in Peril, coordinating the launch, training new recruitments, or sharing a laugh in the bus station kitchen, Tony brought a rare and bright spirit with him that burnt every corner of our community. His leadership was created not only with his extensive knowledge, but also with his kindness, patience and personal relationships with each volunteer and crew member.
Many people are alive today due to Tony’s courage, quick thinking and calm resolution under pressure. He responded to the duty of time and time without hesitation, no matter whether time, weather or personal sacrifice. Tony was a person who had never thought about himself before, but always about the life that could be saved and what was needed to work. His bravery was matched only with his humility; Tony never asked for recognition, although he definitely earned it. His MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire), was honored in the recognition of his outstanding service, was a proud moment for all – but right to Tony’s character, he accepted it with calm and quick gratitude and quickly returned to what he loved: to help others. He was an incarnation of service, a person who did not praise, but gave himself to this reason.
But Tony was more than just a life saving. He was a friend, a trusted and a source of constant positivity. His intellect was sharp as sea wind, and his laughter, a sound familiar at the Dover station in the form of crash waves. He had a story for every occasion, knowledge for every challenge, and a kind word for everyone that crossed his path. His ability to feel comfortable for anyone was one of his biggest gifts. Whether it was a new volunteer or an old friend, the presence of Tony was resting – her stability gives everyone the feeling of assuring everyone.
For generations of the lifeboat crew, those who had respect to learning from them, Tony was a true inspiration – a living example of what is meant to serve with integrity, compassion and power. He taught us the importance of comrade, leadership and unbreakable commitment not only to save life in the sea, but also to the mission. Tony demonstrated every day what it means to serve with dignity and humility. Their work is moral, dedication and tireless efforts that will continue to inspire and guide us for the years to come.
For those who had the privilege of working with him, Tony was a patron, a leader and a friend. He made everyone feel important and valuable. Tony’s influence was not only in his role as a volunteer, but in his ability to bring the best to the people around him. Whether you were a member of an experienced lifeboat crew or someone had just started, Tony created his mission to ensure that everyone supported and encouraged. He taught all of us that the work we do is not only about saving life, but about the bonds we make with each other. He was a father for many, always offered guidance, knowledge and comfort when it was most needed.
The one of us who knew Tony, we will miss him more than words. The vision of standing at the port, the voice of his voice on the radio, the quiet confidence that he brought to every launch – those memories are etched in the soul of RNLI Dover. Tony’s soul was a motivational power behind the success of the station, and its passing leaves a difference that will never be filled. He was not just a volunteer – he was the heartbeat of RNLI Dover, and the legacy that leaves behind is one who will continue to guide us to take us to work.
Tony’s death has broken us all hearts, but it reminded us of the incredible impact of a person on a community. His life was a will for the power of mercy, service and dedication towards others. Tony’s work was not just about being a lifeboat crew member – it was about making a difference in the lives of the people around him, offered a hand when needed, and always showed with a smile. His legacy is not only in the life he had saved, but in those who inspired him, the friendship he had promoted, and the love he shared.
We express our deep condolences to Tony’s family, friends and all, which he had the privilege to know. Condemning the loss of this incredible man, our hearts go to you. Tony’s memory in each of us, we will live on the laughter we share in the stories we tell, and in the work in which we do in her.
As we reflect their lives, we are reminded of living every day with the importance of community, service, and kindness and purpose. Tony Hawkins MBE was a person who gave everything that he loved, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of life -saving volunteers and supporters.
Relaxation in peace, tony. You gave us everything, and you will never forget. Your soul lives in every rescue, every volunteer and every heart that bears the lesson taught by you. Thank you for what you have done for RNLI Doover and the community. We will always remember you.