James Ray Hankins age 83 passed away at his home in Beaverton, AL, after a long battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Arlie Hankins; sister, Mildred Hughes and son Gary Steven Hankins. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Jimmie Rae Hankins of Beaverton, AL; daughters, Rene’ (Steve) Holden of Harvest, AL; Christi (Al) Hester of Helena, AL and grandchildren, Bethaney Hester and Austin Hester of Helena, AL.
After obtaining a BS in Vocational Agriculture from Auburn University and a later MS in Agri-business from Mississippi State University, Mr. Hankins was a lifelong educator dedicated to giving his students skills to succeed beyond the classroom. He began his career in Jasper, Al, and then serving as Ag teacher at Lexington High School, Lexington, AL for over 25 years before returning to his native Lamar County to serve as the first Director of the Lamar County School of Technology for over 15 years. Mr. Hankins enjoyed horses, travel, working on classic cars, and doing landscape work. Mr. Hankins was a member of the Mt. Hebron Methodist Church in Beaverton.
The family would like to thank the doctors and staff at the UAB Kirklin Clinic, Dr. John C. Nichols, Dr. Jason Hatfield, doctors and staff of the Northwest Medical Center, staff of Generations Rehabilitation, Alacare Home Health and Hospice of Northwest Alabama for all the care and support provided.
Services will be Friday, August 22, 2014 at 2:00 P.M. from the Mount Hebron United Methodist Church with burial in the Mount Hebron Cemetery. Bro. Roger Redus, Bro. Zac Head and Mr. Eckard Walker officiating.
Visitation: Thursday, August 21, 2014 from 6:00 to 8: 00 P.M. at the Norwood Funeral Home.
Norwood Funeral Homes Inc. of Guin,. AL directing.
