He was born in The Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas on November 6, 1936. James (Buddy) graduated from Stephen F. Austin where he received a high school diploma. He was married to Betty Lee Hanks on March 2, 1956.
Buddy had a career in oil toll engineering for Reed Tool Co. and Grey Tool Co. and then ran his own lawn care business. He was a member of The Masons and had a passion for building, landscaping and fixing broken things.
He is survived by his wife Betty Lee Hanks, sons James B. Hanks III and Rodney Lee Hanks; grandchildren, Timothy Lee Hanks, Katie Storm Sanchez, Cody Austin Hanks, Hannah Gonzalez and Roman Gonzalez; brother, Billy Hanks and numerous nieces and nephews.
James is preceded in death by his mother, Margaret Hanks; father, James B. Hanks Sr.; sister, Carol White and granddaughter, Melissa Gonzalez.
There are no planned services.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in James' memory may be made to American Diabetes Association or Alzheimer's Association.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ForestParkLawndaleFH.com for the Hanks family.