Joseph Ned Hankins

Joseph Ned Hankins, age 75, was born on October 29, 1950, in Lawton, Oklahoma, to Spencer J. Hankins and Alberta Stuever Hankins. He passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 20, 2025 at home. Joseph married the love of his life, Debbie Hesket, on November 27, 1970, in Lawton, Oklahoma. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, and service. 

He is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie Hankins of the home; his children Spencer J. Hankins of Oklahoma City, Kimberly Hankins Harris of Oklahoma City, Mikey Hankins and Holly of El Reno and Madison Campbell of Oklahoma City, OK; and his cherished granddaughter, Krislyn Renee Harris of Oklahoma City. He is also survived by his sisters Regina Fields and husband Harry, and Nancy Hankins of Tulsa; brothers Tim Hankins and wife Helen of Tulsa, and John Henry Hankins and Sara of Norman; 27 nieces and nephews and 17 great-nieces and great-nephews. Additional survivors include his mother-in-law Bonnie Hesket, of the home, sister-in-laws Brenda Breeze and husband Randy of Lawton, and Linda Taff of Lawton. Joseph was preceded in death by his parents Spencer and Alberta Hankins; brothers Tom Hankins and Ross Hankins; sister Judy Hankins; father-in-law George Hesket; and brothers-in-law Mike Hesket and Johnny Taff. 

Joe attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Lawton through his sophomore year and graduated from Lawton High School in 1968, where he served as Senior Class Vice President. He moved to Stroud, Oklahoma, in 1976, where he became a deeply respected member of the community. Joe served on the Stroud City Council from 1991 to 2009, including time as Mayor, and volunteered for many years as a fireman. In recognition of his dedication and service, he was named Stroud Citizen of the Year in 1998.He was an avid OKC Thunder and Oklahoma Sooner fan but not a fan of the NIL.A faithful member of St. Louis Catholic Church in Stroud, OK since 1976, Joe served on the Parish Council and as a Eucharistic Minister, living his faith through service to others. Joe will be remembered for his warm personality, genuine smile, and firm handshake. If he gave you his word, you could count on him keeping it.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St Louis Catholic Church, PO Box 543, Chandler, OK 74834 or Stroud Food Pantry, 211 N 3rd Ave, Stroud, OK 74079.