Judith Ann Hawkins, a former psychiatric nurse, dedicated over three decades of service to the Cleveland VA hospital. Beyond her professional endeavors, she holds the esteemed title of being the mother of Halle Berry, a renowned and highly acclaimed actress in Hollywood. Yet, who exactly is Judith Ann Hawkins, and what does her relationship entail with her illustrious daughter? Here are some key insights into her life, career, and familial connections.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1939 in Sawley Derbyshire, England, Judith Ann Hawkins relocated to Elyria, Ohio, at the age of 10, where she spent her formative years. She is the daughter of Earl Ellsworth Hawkins, who served as a captain in the Elyria Police Department, and Nellie Dicken, originally from Shardlow, Derbyshire, England. Judith’s heritage reflects a blend of English, German, Irish, and distant Dutch ancestry.
During her high school years, Judith was actively involved in extracurricular activities, serving as a cheerleader and earning the title of homecoming queen. After graduating from Elyria High in 1957, she pursued her passion for nursing at the MB School Of Nursing.
Career as a Nurse
For the majority of her professional tenure, Judith dedicated herself to psychiatric nursing. Her career commenced at Elyria Memorial Hospital, where she spent one year before transitioning to the Cleveland VA hospital. It was at the Cleveland VA hospital that she crossed paths with her future husband, Jerome Jesse Berry. Judith devoted over three decades to serving veterans grappling with mental health challenges at the Cleveland VA hospital.
In the early 2000s, Judith retired from her nursing career and relocated to the shores of Lake Erie, Ohio, seeking solace and tranquility away from the glare of the media spotlight.
Marriage and Divorce with Jerome Jesse Berry
In the early 1960s, Judith entered into marriage with Jerome Jesse Berry, an African-American hospital attendant. From their union, two daughters were born: Heidi Berry, in 1964, and Halle Berry, in 1966. Regrettably, their matrimonial bond was marred by turmoil, as Judith endured domestic violence perpetrated by Jerome.
According to CelebSuburb, Judith faced relentless physical abuse from her ex-husband, enduring assaults nearly every day, often in the presence of their daughters. The violence escalated to such extremes as Jerome kicking her downstairs and striking her head with a wine bottle. Halle Berry vividly recollected witnessing her father’s violent acts at the tender age of five.
Subsequently, Judith initiated divorce proceedings when Halle was four years old and Heidi was six. Courageously assuming the role of a single mother, Judith imparted values of independence and fortitude to her daughters. Jerome Jesse Berry passed away in 2003 due to a brain tumor.
Relationship with Halle Berry
Judith shares a close and supportive bond with her younger daughter, Halle Berry, who ascended to stardom as an actress and model. Throughout Halle’s journey, Judith served as a pillar of encouragement, backing her aspirations and extending financial assistance when Halle ventured to New York City to embark on her acting career.
Halle has consistently lauded her mother as her role model and source of inspiration. She attributes to Judith the nurturing of her biracial identity and instilling in her a profound sense of confidence. Halle emphasizes that Judith imparted the importance of embracing both facets of her heritage and resisting societal attempts to define her solely by her skin color.
In addition to her steadfast support, Judith has been defended by Halle against critics who questioned her commitment to her black heritage. Halle vehemently refutes such claims, asserting that Judith harbors no shame regarding her racial background nor her relationship with her biracial daughter. Halle attests to Judith’s unwavering love and provision of everything she required.
Furthermore, Judith has made appearances alongside Halle at various prestigious events, including award shows, premieres, and philanthropic endeavors. She has also had the opportunity to meet Halle’s three former spouses: David Justice, Eric Benet, and Olivier Martinez. As a grandmother, Judith adores Halle’s two children, Nahla Ariela Aubry and Maceo Robert Martinez.
Relationship with Heidi Berry
The relationship between Judith and her elder daughter, Heidi Berry, lacks the closeness experienced with Halle. Heidi, a notable figure in her own right, is a singer-songwriter known professionally as Heidi Berry-Henderson. She has achieved acclaim through multiple album releases and collaborations with renowned artists such as David Bowie and Seal.
However, Heidi’s connection with Judith and Halle has been strained for numerous years. Sources from VergeWiki suggest that Heidi harbors resentment towards Judith, alleging favoritism towards Halle and a failure to address her emotional needs. Additionally, Heidi has leveled accusations of racism against Judith concerning her treatment of Jerome and his family.
Amidst a tumultuous personal journey, Heidi has faced significant challenges, including battles with drug addiction, periods of homelessness, and struggles with mental health issues. Legal entanglements, including multiple arrests for offenses like theft, assault, and trespassing, have further complicated her circumstances. Additionally, Heidi has been embroiled in lawsuits involving Halle and other celebrities.
Despite these adversities, Heidi has expressed a desire for reconciliation with Judith and Halle. However, her attempts to establish contact have reportedly been rebuffed. Nevertheless, Heidi maintains her love for them, emphasizing a hope for eventual healing and reconciliation.
Net Worth
While Judith’s exact net worth remains undisclosed, it is believed to be modest, primarily derived from her retirement benefits and social security. Additionally, she owns a residence in Ohio, where she currently resides.
In contrast, Judith’s daughter, Halle, boasts a substantial net worth of $90 million, as reported by Celebrity Net Worth. Renowned as one of Hollywood’s highest-paid actresses, Halle has garnered numerous accolades throughout her career, including an Oscar, a Golden Globe, and an Emmy. Beyond her acting endeavors, she is also actively involved in production work and serves as a spokesperson for various prominent brands.
Age
As of 2022, Judith is 83 years old, having been born in 1939. Meanwhile, her daughter Halle reached the age of 55 in 2021, having been born on August 14, 1966.
