Wade Lewis Hankins, Jr.

Wade Lewis Hankins, Jr, age 79 of St. Robert, passed away Wednesday, March 29, 2023, at Phelps Health in Rolla.

Wade was born, May 24, 1943, in Peoria, IL, a son to the late Wade Lewis Hankins, Sr and Martha Anita (Conlee) Hankins.

Wade proudly served his country in the United States Navy before being honorably discharged. He received his AA. From Lakeland Community College in 1972.

Wade was united in marriage to Judith Ann (Entas) Hankins from 1965 to 1972. He was united in marriage to Janet Susan Szepessy in 1973, she preceded him in death in 2019. He was then married to Leslie “Leigh” Bucher Strickland on May 9, 2020 and she survives of their home.

Wade’s working career began as a lead vocalist in a band in New York City, He then went into advertising before beginning as an ordained minister in 1968. Over the next many years, he planted more than 60 churches and facilitated countless ministry initiatives. Highlights include, the Harvest House, Contemporary Christian Center, Vineyard Fellowship as Pastor Emmaus, Missionary to Cote d’lvorie and the Menorah Training Center.

Wade enjoyed collecting movies, listening to the Eagles, playing the guitar, traveling, and spending time with his grandchildren. He was also an ardent fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes.

In addition to his parents and wife, Janet, Wade was preceded in death by a brother, Eddie William Hankins and a nephew, Brandon Christopher Hankins.

In addition to his spouse, Leslie, Wade is survived by, his children, Melissa Marie Entas, Christopher Lewis Hankins, Laura Suzanne Hankins and Adrienne Blake Hankins; three brothers, Gregory Paul Hankins, Albert Lee Hankins and Jeffrey Alan Hankins as well as 17 grandchildren, 6 Great Grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Wade's Life will be held from 1:00 p.m. until  4:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 16, 2023, at the Fraternal Order of Police, 18300 Mo-78, Independence, Mo 64057. There will be an open mic if you would like to share a story or memory about Wade.

Military Honors will be at 3:00 p.m..

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Hankins family in c/o Leslie Hankins, 173 Ridgeview Drive, St. Robert, MO 65584.