James R. Hanks Jr. passed away Wednesday, May 20, 2015, at Merit Health River Region Medical Center in Vicksburg.

He attended Carr Central High School and joined the U.S. Air Force in 1958, serving his country for three years. He attended the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg.

Jim was married to the love of his life, Mary Ann Hanks for 52 years.

He is survived by three children, Leslie Hanks Dee, Skeet Hanks (Alison) and Missy Hanks Giles (Kevin); five grandchildren, Brandon Giles, Taylor Dee, McCenzie Dee, Jude Hanks and Thea Hanks; and his siblings, Charlene Hughes, Harvey H. “Buddy” Hanks (Jane), Charles E. “Bubba” Hanks (Linda), Richard E. Hanks, Tina Hanks Parris (Steve), William B. “Bill” Hanks (Bonnie), Emily Mitchell and Sharon Brague Hanks.

Visitation will be Saturday, May 23, 2015, at Riles Funeral Home from 2 p.m. until the service at 3, with the Rev. Margaret Ayers officiating.

We are grateful for the care provided by Dr. George Abraham, Dr. Eugene Ferris, Dr. Laura Clements and Dr. Paul Pierce IV. We would also like to extend our sincerest appreciation for the wonderful care received from Camellia Home Health nurses and therapists, as well as the nurses at Promise Hospital of Vicksburg and Merit Health River Region Medical Center.

Jim was a member of the St. James Episcopal Church in Port Gibson. He was an avid golfer and loved his Atlanta Braves.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations made to the Wounded Warriors Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.