HANKINS-Fern C., beloved mother of Robert H. Hankins of Omaha, NE and Barbara Sarkis of Sun City, AZ. Born in Schaller, IA on April 26, 1916; died in Omaha on September 19, 2007. Preceded in death by husband, Charles Robert Hankins, M.D. and son, Richard L. Hankins. She is also survived by sister, Norma Severeide of Sioux City, IA; brothers: Dale Harris of Sioux Falls, SD and Bob Harris of Huntington Beach, CA; 6 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grand-children. Her husband of 70 years wrote the following tribute to Fern to be printed upon her death. He died last year, but felt strongly that everyone should know about his treasured wife and our mother and the contributions she made to the people of Omaha. FERN’S GIFT TO OMAHA Fern was an avid believer in giving of one’s time to various charitable organizations and worthy projects. Fern did not believe in serving for praise and recognition; she believed in volunteerism and in helping others. Her first works were with the children of Omaha. She was chairman of the Building Committee for the new Youth Center at 42nd Street. She worked for the development of the Juvenile Court and was Chairman of the Advisory Committee to the Juvenile Court. She was on the Executive Committee of the League of Woman Voters. She worked with the United Methodist Community Centers for over 25 years. She acted as treasurer for that period of time. She was given a plaque for her years of service. She helped in the formation of the Franklin Credit Union and helped them until Mr. King felt they were able to take over the job. She fought for scholarships for black high school graduates. She was given the Homemaker Award in 1984 by the United Community Services. She was active in her membership at the First United Methodist Church in Omaha. She was Chairman of the Women’s Society. She was chairman of the Site Committee for the present church building; she was a member of the Board of Trustees as well as the Official Board. She served on the Finance Committee as Chairman of the Budget Committee. She was given an award by the church before the congregation for her services to the church (only 5 or 6 people have been given this award). She was active in support of Santa Monica (treats alcoholism and drug dependency in women). She acted as President and was also chairman of the building committee that repaired the building. She served as Secretary and President of the Omaha-Douglas County Medical Auxiliary, and President of PEO Association of Omaha (24 chapters), PTA for 3 children, and Girl Scouts and Den Mother of BSOA. She also raised three children and one husband. The husband often complained that there was an organization which was titled LFD, which stands for LET FERN DO IT. Thank God for women like this! She is greatly missed by her family.
HEAFEY-HEAFEY-HOFFMANN-DWORAK-CUTLER WEST CENTER CHAPEL 78th & West Center 391-3900
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