of Harrison, AR
January 15, 1962 - December 14, 2013
Debbie Jean Hankins, age 51, of Harrison, passed away Saturday, December 14, 2013, in Harrison. She was born January 15, 1962, in Harrison, the daughter of Clyde and Martha Jean (Manns) Brewer. Along with her parents, Debbie was preceded in death by her infant sister, Irene; and a step-son, Quentin Hankins.
Debbie attended CrossRoads Community Church. She lived in Woolum and Yates Center, Kansas before settling down in Harrison. She married Mel Hankins, February 14, 1988, at Elmwood Baptist Church. For several years she worked at Hudson's Grocery and later retired from the Arkansas Revenue Office in Harrison.
Through her life, Debbie was a member of several organizations including ROTC, EHC, United Women's Quilting Club, and was past president of the Arkansas Democratic Women's Society of Boone County. In her free time, Debbie enjoyed hiking, camping, crafting and crocheting items such as baby blankets and hats for cancer patients.
Debbie is survived by her husband, Melvin B. Hankins; her son, Bradley Hankins; her daughter, Candice Stephens and husband Heath; her brothers, Jim Brewer and Mike Brewer; her grandson, Jacob Hankins; and a host of other family and many dear friends.
Memorial service was Saturday, December 21, 2013, at Roller-Christeson Funeral Home, with Dorphus Smithson officiating.
Mel and Candice,
Your family has always been so important to me. I will forever cherish all of my memories of Debbie. She will be missed terribly. I love you guys and I am praying for comfort for your family.
I met Debbie in 1980 when we were both college freshmen and I was lucky to have her dorm across the hall from mine. We became friends quickly. Over the years we shared many life experiences. She was such a joy and a great person. She could always make me laugh. During these last years she showed such great courage, faith and strength. She was truly an inspiration to me. I know she loved her family deeply and my thoughts and prayers are with them at this time.
Debbie was an amazing lady that will never be forgotten. My deepest condolences to her loved ones.
Mel and Jacob - Debbie was so sweet. It was such a pleasure and a blessing to know her. You had a lot to teach us about strength, preserverance and staying positive. We know that you miss her and so will we. You are all in our prayers.
Mel Debbie has been on my mind a lot lately in prayer, I went to church with her, Candace, and her parent at Elmwood Baptist Church, Debbie always had a smile on her face and I always appreciated the fact that I had the pleasure of knowing her she was a very special lady and I enjoyed visiting with her and I am so proud that I had the pleasure of knowing such a special lady, may god bless your whole family and give you peace knowing she is no longer in pain.
Mel, Jake, Bradley, Candace, and family,
What a privilege it has been to have been your neighbor all these years and to share garden thoughts with Debbie. She has been so strong and has always held her family in high regard. Mel, you were such a devoted husband through all her illness, and as such, you have been blessed.
May you all find comfort in all the good memories of your time with her. My prayers will continue for you as you continue on this another journey.
God Bless you all.
Polly
Mel & Family: Our deepest sympathy and prayers go out to you.
Mel, "Little" Jake, and family---We were saddened to hear about Debbie's passing. Debbie was such a strong willed person who inspired a lot of people with such a positive attitude. May God give you comfort, support, and strength during this difficult time.
Mel: my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Heartfelt condolences from your Scout family at Boy Scouts Troop 60. We will remember and honor Miss Debbie each time we use the flag covers that she made for us.
Mel, Jake, and Family - We are so sorry for your loss. Deb was such a strong, beautiful, loving and gracious lady. Sending our love and prayers to each of you. Todd, Jan, & Seth
mel sorry for your loss your in our thoughts and prayers.may god give you comfort
bob and Judy Galligher