Jesse Charles Hanks

Jesse Charles Hanks, 69, of Jonesboro ended his watch Sunday, November 30, 2015 surrounded by his family at NEA Baptist Memorial Hospital after a courageous one-year battle with cancer.

Survivors include his wife, Peggy Sue Hanks; a daughter, Angelia Gail (Angie) Hanks; and a son, Chad Michael Hanks, all of Brookland; three grandsons: Tyler McKay Moody and Brady Austin Moody, both of Jonesboro, and Asa Wade Hutchins of Brookland; his father, Elouis “Buck” Hanks of Joshua, TX; mother, Winona Simpkins Hanks Kifer; two brothers: Mike Hanks and Robin Youngman, all of Jonesboro; and a sister, Barbara Sue Hanks, of Joshua, TX. He was preceded in death by a brother, Tommy Edward Hanks, and a sister, Debbie Marie Hanks.

Born on October 24, 1946, Jesse was a lifetime resident of Jonesboro, a 1966 graduate of Valley View High School, and a member of Nettleton Baptist Church.

No stranger to public service, Jesse launched a nearly 40-year career in law enforcement in 1977 with the Jonesboro Police Department, attaining the rank of sergeant before retiring in 2001. Ten days later, he joined the Craighead County Sheriff’s Department, serving as the chief bailiff/court security officer until his health forced an early retirement in 2015.

Jesse was a 21-year veteran of the Arkansas Army National Guard, retiring as staff sergeant in 2006. In addition, He provided off-duty security to Dillard’s, Mercantile Bank, and Liberty Bank as he served and protected the community. Jesse was known for being a firm but fair officer of the law, balanced with a true sense of mercy and compassion for his fellow man. He had a servant’s heart exhibited by the loyal, unwavering service he provided to his community, county, and country.

A civic-minded and social fellow, Jesse was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Loyal Order of Moose, and Veterans of Foreign Wars. It was rare that Jesse encountered someone he did not know. The high esteem in which members of the community held him was unparalleled. He enjoyed watching NASCAR races and piddling with antique cars. Jesse worked hard, was a good father to his children, and cared deeply for his family.

A celebration of Jesse’s life will be held Saturday, December 5 at 2 p.m. in Emerson Memorial Chapel with Mike Martin officiating. Burial with police honors will follow at Nettleton Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday from 5-8 p.m. at Emerson Funeral Home.

Active pallbearers include Roy Coleman, Kelly Baggett, Rusty Grigsby, Rick Thomas, Don Browning, and Brant Tosh.

Honorary pallbearers will be Roger Lamberth, Larry Burcham, Gene McDaniel, and Henry Gray.

Online registry: www.emersonfuneralhome.com