J. L. Hankins

JL Hankins, 92, went to be with his Lord and Savior on December 22, 2023, at his home in Olustee, Oklahoma with his family by his side. Graveside services will be at 2:00 PM on Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at the Eldorado Cemetery with Chaplain Erin Martinez officiating. Burial is under the direction of Kincannon Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

JL was born on April 10, 1931, in Eldorado, Oklahoma to his parents, John Ledgerwood Hankins and Mary Harriet “Hattie” (Gowen) Hankins.  He spent his childhood days growing up in Eldorado and graduated with the Class of 1952.  JL met Norma Jean Bates while he was visiting home from being at baseball camp in Minnesota where he played baseball for the Minnesota Twins.  JL and Norma Jean fell in love and were married on March 21, 1958, in Odell, Texas.  After his baseball career, JL worked for Jackson County District #3 for many years until he retired.  JL enjoyed time with his family and grandchildren, and he was always glad to help anyone who needed it.  He will be missed by so many people who came to know him and loved him.

JL was preceded in death by his wife of over 51 years, Norma Jean Hankins; son, Mark Hankins; grandson, Michael Watson; his parents John and Hattie; sisters, Mary, Ellen, and Evelyn; and his brothers, Canie, Pup, and Dee.

JL is survived by his children, Brenda Watson and her husband, Don; Bryan Hankins; and Ronnie Hankins; grandchildren, Rusty Bruce and wife, Tara, Tara Zinn, Rob Hankins and wife, Kristy, Mark Hankins, II and wife, Kia, Nicky Hankins and wife, Hanah; and many great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, other family members, and many friends.

Online tributes may be made at kincannonfuneralhome.com