Master Sergeant Timothy John Hankins, 40, of Orange, Texas, passed away on October 8, 2016, while stationed at McDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida.
Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Sunday, October 16, 2016, at First Nazarene Church in Orange. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens in Orange.
A reception will be held at West Orange Community Center following the burial.
Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange.
Born in Orange, Texas, on December 29, 1975, Timothy was the son of Dennis Hankins and Carolyn Reese Hankins. He was a 1994 graduate of West Orange- Stark High School where he played football and was a member of the Drama Club that won state level competitions his senior year. Timothy loved to play guitar and learn about his family history. He had a lifelong dream of joining the United States Army, which he fulfilled in 1995. He served in the Unites States Army for 19 years and the Texas National Guard for 2 years. His tours of duty include Iraq, Afghanistan, Italy, England, Scotland, Haiti, and others. He served in the 82nd Airborne as a Jumpmaster and later became a member of the Green Beret as a Weapons Specialist.
During his service received multiple awards including 2 Bronze Star Medals, Purple Heart, 6 Army Commendation Medals, 8 Army Achievement Medals, 6 Army good conduct Medals, National Defense Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, 4 Afghanistan Campaign Medals with Bronze Service Star, 3 Iraq Campaign Medals with Bronze Service Star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, 3 Noncommissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbons, Army Service Ribbon, 2 Overseas Service Ribbons, NATO Medal, Multinational Force and Observers Medal, Right Side Awards, Presidential Unit Citation (Army and Air Force), Meritorious Unit Commendation (Army), Army Superior Unit Award, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Basic Parachutist Badge, Badge Combat and Special Skill Badge Marksmanship Qual Badge, Expert, Bar, Weapon: Rifle (Inscription: Rifle), Special Forces Tab, and 6 Overseas Service Bars.
Timothy was an accomplished, outgoing, kind man with such a big heart. He served his country with pride and will be greatly missed by anyone who knew and loved him.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents; Leslie and Fleta Reese; and his grandfather, John Howard Hankins.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Casey Hankins; his parents; grandmother, Betty Rollings; sons, Timothy John Hankins II and Reese Dillon Hankins; aunts and uncles, Sharon Hankins, David Veiseh and Penny Hankins, and Betty Reese; cousins, Cynthia Mouton, Kimberly Duncan, Robert Reese, Katie King, Kara Hankins, Ed Veiseh, and Greg Veiseh.
Serving as pallbearers will be 1st S.F.C. Alpha Comany. Honorary pallbearers are Kenny Droddy, Michael Croaker, Chad Guillory, Aaron Boudreaux, Erick Wagstaff, Paul Davis, Joseph (Tee Joe) LeBlanc, and Greg Veiseh.
Master Sergeant Timothy Hankins will return home on Friday, October 14, 2016 to Bush Intercontinental Airport. He will be escorted by the his family, military, local law enforcement and the Patriot Guard Riders - Golden Triangle to begin his journey home to Orange. The route from Houston will be Highway 146 to Highway 90 through Beaumont to Interstate 10. The caravan will continue to Orange exiting at Highway 90/Strickland/MacArthur/Green Avenue to Claybar Funeral Home 504 N. 5th Street with an anticipated arrival between 8:30-9:00 pm.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Autism Speaks at ATTN Web Gift 1060 State Road, 2nd Floor, Princeton, NJ 08540.
Condolences
Tim Rogers
October 17, 2024
Tim Rogers has purchased Eco-Friendly Memorial Trees for M Timothy John Hankins
David Hankin
July 20, 2024
Deepest sympathy to the Hankins
Erick Wagstaff
August 18, 2018
C
Kendal Black
May 29, 2017
Tim was the Team Sergeant at the last outpost I was at in Afghanistan. He was the most caring, down to earth Master Sergeant that if ever met. He always wanted to hear about me and my family. He always talked to me about his sons and told me he had the most awesome wife, Casey. My wife was expecting my 5th child and he seemed just as excited as me at the prospect of my new child. When talked with having me do something that he knew I wouldn't be happy about (bumping up cooking from just dinner to breakfast and dinner, by myself, for 250 people), he came and talked to me and asked me nicely. All he had to do was give me an order and I would've had to do it, but that wasn't Tim. I never saw him mad and never saw him without a smile. Tim will be missed. To Tim's wife and kids, you were his everything and he spoke of you daily. Please know that he loved you deeply.
Kris Douget
October 18, 2016
I never had the pleasure of meeting this wonderful man or his family, but after reading about him and his family and all they have given for our country , I am so very thankful for them and I pray for the peace of our Lord that passes all understanding to comfort them
Paul S.
October 18, 2016
I worked with Tim back in 2002-2003 in B Co, 3-325 AIR. He was one of the best NCOs I ever had the pleasure to serve with, and I don't give that phrase out casually. Tim was always upbeat, making light of situations when things were particularly difficult, and lifting everyone's spirits with his contagious charm. The men who were his subordinates were his younger brothers, and they would have followed him to hell and back with gasoline pants. His superiors could count on him to get whatever task they asked of him accomplished quickly, without complication or hesitation. He was literally the happiest and most upbeat NCO I knew. I was just thinking of him literally days before his passing, thinking about needing to catch up with him. It hurts to hear about the loss of someone who I considered a brother. See you on the rally point on the other side, Tim. To his family: You raised an amazing young man, who became an exemplary warrior and great American if there ever was one. Sad to see someone like him taken from us.
S Garrett
October 17, 2016
My heart breaks for you and your family. My nephew said he was the best and all good things about him...prayer and love for you and your family
Chau
October 16, 2016
Thank you for everything that you've taught me. Slip away. http://imgur.com/a/2Gbxd
Kathy Addison
October 16, 2016
Dennis and Carolyn So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Chucky Richardson
October 15, 2016
Carolyn and Dennis, my heart aches to see two of my friends have to witness such pain. I didn't know your Son but I do know the quality stock he came from and that in itself tells me he was a great individual. I can't begin to understand what feelings the two of you must be going through; I can only imagine. From the bottom of my heart I want my friends to know that I am so very sorry for your loss. May God bless both of you and always keep you in His vision. Chucky Richardson
Coach Tywater And Family
October 15, 2016
Coach Tywater and Family purchased the Memories to Treasure for the family of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins.
Patsy Mcculler
October 15, 2016
Tim, go in peace and know how you were loved. I was blessed with knowing Tim as a teenager and young man. He spent a lot of time at our home. The soap on my kitchen floor they used as a slide across the floor. The firecrackers you boys set of in my kitchen.......are just two of the funny memories I will keep close. You are in our hearts forever.
Amy Murillo
October 15, 2016
Many of our hearts are just saddened. Tim was always so silly when we he came to school. We just never knew what he would do - we just knew he would make us laugh. We love you Casey, Reese & Tim's family.
Benny Anderson
October 15, 2016
Benny Anderson purchased the Divine Peace Bouquet for the family of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins.
John & Patricia Burmeister
October 15, 2016
John & Patricia Burmeister purchased the Strength & Solace Spray for the family of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins.
Patricia Raines Pate
October 15, 2016
To the family of Master Sergeant Timothy Hankins, I never had the honor of meeting Sergeant Hankins, but am so thankful for his service for our country. What a meritorious record; you have to be incredibly proud! I am so sorry for your loss, prayers for your family.Patricia Raines Pate
Doris Spencer
October 15, 2016
Casey Reese so sorry for you and your family. Leslie and I were talking about the night he was at our house looking for our ghost and how so full of life he was. I know he will be greatly missed and was loved by all. Doris and Leslie Spencer
Rene Corkill
October 15, 2016
Prayers are with you Casey and family. He was a sweet and very nice classmate. I remember when we would be at the pep rally he was always so excited to come out and give his all during the game as he did all of his life. I was devastated when he graduated a year before I did because I would miss the light when he would walk into class or a room for that matter. I was considered an outsider and not in the cool ring but never once was he rude or ugly to me. The angels are watching over you and your family in this time of need.
Amy Yowell
October 15, 2016
Casey,Reese,Dennis,Carolyn,Timothy and Penny I pray you find comfort by being surrounded by all the family and friends at this sorrowful time. As we come together to celebrate Tim let's remember all the hats he wore soldier,husband dad,musician, son,friend, outdoorsman but most of all Goofball and Jokester.
Love and prayers to all
Amy Yowell
Amanda Williams
October 14, 2016
Praying for you Casey and Reese! So extremely sorry to hear about your loss. Amanda Williams and family / Ponderosa Elem 2006-2009
David And Sheri Bethard
October 14, 2016
I didn't have the honor of meeting Timothy but what a list of accomplishments in the military. A fine man. I grew up with Dennis and Carolyn in West Orange. I'm so sorry for this terrible loss to Timothy's family, friends and Parents. David and Sheri Bethard
Dean Russell
October 14, 2016
Tim you will be miss. I will always remember the smile you had on your face.When you came into the room the children would get excited. RIP my friend. To Casey and Reese and the family, my prayers are with you.Look to God for your strength.
Trevor And Hyacinth Mellinger
October 14, 2016
Casey and Family,
We want to express our sympathy and let you know that our thoughts are with you. Our hearts goes out to you during this difficult time.
Love, The Mellinger family ( Trevor, Hyacinth, TJ and Brian)
Melanie (Hoppert) Kish
October 14, 2016
Sending my love, Casey, to you both and all of your and Tims families. My heart is with you and I pray for your strength and your courage during an awful time. I will fondly remember fast food deliveries to school for our lunch from Tims smiling face. Hugs, prayers and healing thoughts.
Sonya Fikea
October 14, 2016
Sorry for your loss Mrs.Hankins, praying for you and your family! Sonya Fikes/ Ponderosa Elementary school
Betty Thaggard
October 14, 2016
Casey, Reese, Timothy and family. Our prayers are with you. Praying God strengthens you all. Betty and family
Roberta Mack
October 14, 2016
Casey and Family
At this time of sadness may you find strength in God and comfort in the warm thoughts of others.
Roberta Mack
Ponderosa Elementary School
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Dr. Cathy Waddell
October 14, 2016
Casey my heart is broken for you and your family. I pray your strength during this tumultuous time. I Love You, Cathy Waddell
Edith Mckoy-Archie
October 14, 2016
Casey, Reese, Timothy, his parents and your entire family my heart goes out to you for your loss. Sending prayers of comfort from Fayetteville to all of you :pray::skin-tone-2:.
Anonymous
October 14, 2016
Country Basket Blooms was purchased for the family of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins.
Anonymous
October 14, 2016
Beautiful in Blue was purchased for the family of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins.
April Smithson
October 14, 2016
We are sending our love to you all Casey, Reese, Timothy, Dennis, Carolyn, Casey's family, and the rest of Tim's family as well as friends like us who love and will miss Tim. You remain in our prayers.
Claybar Funeral Home
October 14, 2016
0 file added to the tribute wall
Anonymous
October 14, 2016
Simply Elegant Spathiphyllum was purchased for the family of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins.
Sandi Mulhollan
October 14, 2016
On behalf of the Sautter family, sending prayers of comfort and peace to Tim's family.Dennis, Carolyn, David, and Ms. Betty. My children went to school with Tim at WOS, My parents Ray and Mary Sautter were friends with his grandparents John and Betty. Our deepest sympathies for the loss of a honorable, kind person.Thank you for your service Master Sgt. Sandi Sautter Mulhollan -Lumberton, TXChad Porterfield-Orange, TXCharla Mulhollan-Beaumont, TxMary Sautter-Merryville, La
Paula Auffurth
October 14, 2016
Carolyn, Dennis, and family, we are so sorry to hear this tragic news. Prayers be with you. Our deepest sympathy, Mike and Paula Auffurth
Claybar Funeral Home
October 14, 2016
46 files added to the album LifeTributes
Anonymous
October 13, 2016
Serene Retreat was purchased for the family of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins.
Travis Sartain
October 13, 2016
Tim was a great soldier and a good friend. We worked together for a spell in SUT and from the first moment I talked to him I knew he was going to be an outstanding instructor and team sergeant. He had a great spirt who could make us all laugh. He wouldn't hesitate to give the shirt off his back or help to pick up a two sided horse shelter with you (true story). He will always be remembered as one of SFs superb warriors. De oppresso liber Brother! -travis
Victoria G
October 13, 2016
Our deepest condolences with hugs and prayers to his family & friends and especially Casey and his boys.
The Prosperie Family
October 13, 2016
Larry and I never actually met Tim, but we knew him because of his Mom, Carolyn. We sincerely appreciated Tim's service and the sacrifices he and his family have made. Carolyn and Dennis we are extremely sorry for your loss.
- Sarah Cash
October 13, 2016
- Sarah Cash purchased the Sapphire Skies Bouquet for the family of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins.
Jason Bane
October 13, 2016
You were the best of all of us. I love you brother. - Bane
Melissa
October 13, 2016
THANK YOU M SGT. TIMOTHY FOR YOUR SERVICE. GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
Lonnie W. Mccabe
October 13, 2016
Tim was a great man, a great soldier, agreat friend and i am proud to say he was a great countryman!
Lonnie W McCabe
Major (Ret) Eric & Lisa Massey. "B6".
October 13, 2016
Major (Ret) Eric & Lisa Massey. "B6". purchased the America the Beautiful for the family of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins.
John Stebbins
October 13, 2016
I am so proud that I met this great American Soldier. He shared much with many people, and he impacted my life and my future in ways that can only help me be better.
Gloria Moore
October 13, 2016
Carolyn and Dennis, I'm holding you both close in my heart as you travel these difficult times. Tim was a beautiful little boy and a fine man who chose to serve his country and serve it well. He was a hero. My husband, Chester, Sr. loved Tim. He was honored to have such a good boy on his team duirng the Wesco days. Tim was always so polite and showed great respect to others. About a year before my husband passed I came home from work one day and he asked me "guess who I ran into today?" . He told me it was Tim and he was home for a visit with you both. He said they stood in the store and talked 30-40 minutes about the Wesco days and they talked about Tim's trips back and forth to the Middle East. Chester was so happy to see him again. God bless you both and know that you are in the loving thoughts and prayers of many!
Elaina Hagler
October 12, 2016
I haven't spoken to Tim in a couple of years but we had been friends since we were 3 or 4. Every time we talked or saw each other it was like no time had passed by at all. He will always be Timmy to me. He had the most loving and caring heart. He fought so bravely to defend this great nation for us to have freedom. I wish I could have been there for him these last couple of years when he may have needed me most. You will always be in my heart. I am blessed to have been able to call you my friend. I will see you on the other side.
Rob Brister
October 12, 2016
I grew up with Tim in Orange, TX; and also served with Tim in 3d Special Forces Group (Airborne). We had some good times at Ft. Bragg and even enjoyed a deployment to Afghanistan together in 2010. Tim, my brother, you will be missed.
Jeannie Perkins
October 12, 2016
Dennis and Carolyn, I remember Tim from Boy Scouts with my son, Jeff Perkins, and leaders Buel and Tom. I am sorry to hear of your loss. Know that your grief is shared by those who love and care for your family. Though it may seem that way, you do not have to bear the burden alone. Let your heart grieve and love. Condolences, Jeannie Russell Perkins WO class of 1971
Leyla
October 12, 2016
I met Tim a few weeks ago when he came to our State Farm office in Tampa to transfer his policies. He was such a polite gentleman, and had a great personality. I was very saddened by the news of his passing, and have been praying for him and the family. I hope comfort and warm memories may find you and carry you during this difficult time.
Nathan & Traci Birmingham
October 12, 2016
Nathan & Traci Birmingham lit a candle in memory of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins
Shannon Huffman
October 12, 2016
Shannon Huffman lit a candle in memory of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins
John & Patricia Burmeister
October 11, 2016
My wife and I have known Tim for a few years. He made a difference. We'll miss him. The work continues. John & Patricia Burmeister.
Robbi Green
October 11, 2016
Robbi Green lit a candle in memory of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins
Becky Fields
October 11, 2016
Becky Fields lit a candle in memory of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins
Linda Koonce
October 10, 2016
Grant rest eternal to your servant Tim, O Lord. Let light perpetual shine upon him, and comfort those who grieve. Amen. With sincere & heartfelt condolences, Linda Koonce
Christina Taylor
October 10, 2016
Sending my condolences to the family and friends he was the sweetest ever he always kept in touch with me.. last December he came down to visit me and my family I'll never forget the things that we talked about.. he will be greatly missed by all
Antonio K. Golden
October 10, 2016
Tim was always great spirited a real funny guy. Before we deployed in 2004 we were out buying gear I mentioned to him that I had to go Christmas shopping so he decided he'd ride along. This was during lunch he helped me pick a tree and helped me set it up at home. Just that memory reminds me of the Halloween right before that. My son wanted to be a spider I couldn't find a spider costume anywhere. During just regular conversation I mentioned it and Tim sprung into action helping me well actually sewing the costume together and saving Halloween for my son. Tim Hankins brother you will always be in my heart Rest In Peace brother see you later
Adam Arechiga
October 10, 2016
Tim was a mentor, great leader, and above all a true friend! He would always be there with a smile or some out of nowhere comment when something was wrong. Always willing to share a laugh and much more for whomever needed it. His humor and candor was always on or above reproach. A hard worker who set and smashed goals left and right. Took care of his soldiers the way a good leader should have. Loved and cared for all those around him, whether it be his military family or blood family. Such a great friend, not sure one could ask for a better one. I miss you Brother! May you rest in peace and until we meet up again in Valhalla!! AATW!!!
Gloria Lovell
October 9, 2016
GLORIA LOVELL lit a candle in memory of M Sgt. Timothy John Hankins