Ella Marie Hankins

Ella Marie Hankins died peacefully January 31, 2017 at the age of 87; born February 23, 1929, in Orient, IA, she was the fourth of six children born to Burt and Hazel Johnson. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers and their wives, Dudley and Norma Johnson and Floyd and Carrie Johnson; son-in-law Thomas F. Farris; son James H. Lewis; and her husband Lloyd S. Hankins. Known for her work ethic, Marie began working at age 13 and continued until Alzheimer's disease stopped her at age 78. She supported her family as a factory worker, grocery checker, department head for Wal-Mart, and private care giver. While raising her children, Marie taught Sunday school and MYF, volunteered with PTA, and handcrafted clothes for her daughter and herself. She took great pride in keeping an immaculate home and yard. She was a faithful member of Spradling Baptist Church until her health prevented her attendance. Marie is survived by her daughter and son-in-law Rose Farris Carr and Jessie Carr; son, Jary W. Lewis and his wife Susan; daughter-in-law Nelta Lewis; seven grandchildren and four great-grandsons; sister Ethel Corbari; and brothers Henry and Wayne Johnson. Friends will be received at Lewis-Roberts Funeral Chapel in Fort Smith Thursday and Friday. A private graveside service will be held at Stuckey Cemetery in Johnson, Ark. To place an online tribute, go to www.lewisfuneralchapel.net.