Donald Eugene Hankins' Obituary
Donald “Don” Eugene Hankins, affectionately known as “Red Rider” in his truck-driving days, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2025, in Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of 86.
Born July 17, 1939, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Don was the son of D.H. Hankins and Lois Bounds Nesbett. Immediately after graduating high school in 1956, he proudly joined the U.S. Navy, serving honorably until 1962. Stationed in the 8th Naval District aboard the USS Lexington, he rose to the rank of commandant and carried that discipline and pride throughout his life.
After his journey around the world in the Navy, Don began his railroad career with the Cotton Belt in Pine Bluff, later transferring to Dallas. In 1968 he moved his family to Mississippi to drive for Roadway Express, where he logged three decades behind the wheel—on the weekends and in between runs, building houses with his sons, teaching them the value of hard work and a solid foundation. He retired in 1998 as a member of the prestigious Multimillion Mile Drivers Club, placing him among the top 10% of professional drivers nationwide for safe, incident-free miles. A 32nd-degree Freemason Shriner, Don lived by quiet principles of brotherhood, honor, and hard work.
In 1961 he married the love of his life, Eva Mae Hankins. Together for 64 years, they built a home filled with laughter, loyalty, and unwavering devotion. After retirement, Don and Eva hit the highways once more, this time in their motorhome, exploring North America for over two decades—chasing sunsets, family visits, and the freedom of the open road they both cherished.
Don was a devoted father to Scott Hankins (Benita), Steven “Greg” Hankins (Cathy), and Stephanie Tompkins (Tony). Some of his children’s fondest memories were weekends at Sardis and Enid lakes—camping under the stars, teaching them to water ski, and guiding their first strokes as they learned to swim.
His legacy shines in eight grandchildren: Taylor, Jesse (Danielle), Jeffrey, Jared (Meghan), David (Bethany), Justin (Elizabeth), Kelsey (Michael), and Braxton; seven great-grandchildren: Wes (Lachlyn), Faith, Cohen, Maelyn, Sophia, Louie, and Briar; and great-great-grandchild Iris Elizabeth Hankins expected soon. He is survived by his wife, Eva Mae; his brother, Troy Hankins; and preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Hankins Petray.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 12, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m., both at Memorial Park Cemetery, 5668 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Don will be deeply missed, but his steady hand, dry wit, and the miles he traveled—both on the highway and through life—will live on in every story told around the table.
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