A Season of Giving: Hawley Family spreads joy through Carolina Panthers surprise

For Tim, Leslie and Taylor Hawley, the Christmas season has long been about more than decorations and gifts—it’s about giving back. The family is seeking to share Panthers seats for the Dec. 21st game. The Carolina Panthers will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on December 21, 2025, at Bank of America Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 1:00 PM.

In a Facebook post dated December 23, 2022, Tim Hawley shared a moment that captured the heart of the holiday spirit and the power of community generosity.

“My absolute favorite time of year. We get to give back to deserving people in the community. Merry Christmas Bayze, enjoy the game tomorrow, and your signed DB jersey. It was a pleasure getting to meet you young man! #KeepPounding🙏.”
— Tim Hawley
(Tag: Leslie Hawley)

The post celebrated a special surprise for a young Panthers fan named Bayze, who received not only tickets to a Carolina Panthers game, but also a signed defensive back jersey—a gift that turned an ordinary holiday weekend into a lifelong memory.

Moments like this highlight how local families quietly and consistently show up for others, creating joy without expectation or fanfare. For Bayze, it was a Christmas filled with excitement, football, and a reminder that kindness still runs strong in the community.

As the Hawleys’ post made clear, sometimes the greatest gifts of the season aren’t found under a tree—but in the simple act of giving, meeting someone new, and making them feel seen.

And for those who live by it, that’s what makes this time of year their absolute favorite.