Jerry Eugene Hanks, age 81, of Modesto, California passed away on Thursday, July 7, 2022. Jerry was born September 2, 1940 to Alfred and Edith Hanks in Oklahoma. Jerry graduated from Ceres High School in 1959 and later enlisted in the United States Navy and served as a Seabee from 1966 to 1968. He served his country in the Vietnam war and continued his service as a Navy Reserve until 1972. After being honorably discharged he began his career in the pipe trades where he worked in the union for 40 years mentoring many plumbers and pipe fitters along the way. He married Betty Blackwell in 1969 and they were blessed to celebrate 53 years of marriage together. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His most precious gifts were his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Jerry was an avid gun collector who loved hunting and bowling. He was proud of his bowling skills and even won a few trophies.
Jerry is survived by his wife Betty Joyce Hanks, his son Richard Hanks(Linda), his daughter Betty Jeane Hanks-Hannah(Michael), his grandchildren Kasey Pippin(Jarrod), Priscilla Geronilla(Eddie), Emily Hanks and his great grandchildren Kelsey, Sydney, Kynzie and Kannon. He was preceded in death by his parents Alfred and Edith Hanks, his sister Melba Stevens, his nephew Ricky Stevens and grand daughter Faye Leanne Hanks.
A funeral service will be held Monday, July 18, 2022 at 10:00 AM at Lakewood Funeral Home, Hughson, CA with a graveside service to follow.
Fond memories can be shared at www.lakewoodhughson.com for the Hanks family. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to Shriner’s Children’s Hospital.
