An Alabama man who died in the Philippines has been returned to his family.
The body of Gary Hawkins was cremated and given to his wife, Lyn, who he lived with in the Philippines. The couple did mission work, but Hawkins became ill last year, and his death quickly declined.
When the father of five died in the hospital on Father’s Day, his family was told they could not have the body until they paid $30,000 worth of unpaid bills. The family started a GoFundMe account and held fundraisers in Alabama to try and raise the money.
The office of U.S. Rep. Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) also got involved and attempted to work with the U.S. Embassy in Manila on the issue.
Hawkins’ sister, Carol Harris, who lives in Cullman, told 1819 News she felt the family was being scammed. However, the hospital has now agreed to allow Hawkins’ wife to make payments on the now $20,000 bill.
She said while she is thankful her brother’s body is released, it is still a bittersweet moment.
“He’s still gone,” Hawkins told 1819 News. “It gives us peace that he’s not in a freezer anymore but it still feels like something is missing.”
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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