Obituaries

Davis Martin Hankins, 85, transitioned to his heavenly home Sunday, June 29, 2025. He was born May 10, 1940, in Axton, Virginia, to the late Richard Martin Hankins and Mattie Davis Hankins. He was lovingly raised during childhood by his aunt, Lucy Hankins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Ramona Burford.

He was of the Christian faith and the oldest living member of Greenwood Baptist Church in Axton, Virginia. He was known to everyone as a godly man who loved the Lord, and this was evident in the testimony that he lived out every day. He was a dedicated employee who was well-respected among his coworkers. He worked for many years as a maintenance technician with GE, AmFib, and Allied Bendix. A true outdoorsman, Davis loved being in nature and found joy in fishing and hunting. He was a mechanic who could often fix things when other people could not, and he loved cutting wood and working on old tractors. He found contentment in working in his shop and helping others with projects. Although his earthly presence is no longer with us, his legacy of love and kindness will always be remembered.

Davis spent his life loving his family well. He was a dedicated husband to his beautiful wife and a loving father and grandfather. He is survived by his precious wife of 57 years, Shirley Mae Hankins, whom he always referred to as “Sugarbabe;” his daughters, Tammy Michelle Karasek, Tracy Martin Hankins, and Donna Marie Silvers (Darren); and his sons, Bruce Wayne Simpson (Cynde) and Richard Eric Hankins. Also left to cherish and honor his memory are 12 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the Hankins Family Cemetery at 318 Hairfield Lane, Axton, Virginia, at 11:00 AM, officiated by Pastor Mark Redd and Pastor John Rigney.

Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family.