The Excelsior Standard, Oct. 28, 2022

Ben Hankins

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Ben Hankins III, who left this world Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, at age 72. Born April 18, 1953, Ben was a man whose life was marked by good times, love and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. Ben was a lifelong resident of Excelsior Springs. He graduated in 1971 from Excelsior Springs High School. After high school, he worked at Mohr Value, Mod Labs and retired in 2007 from General Motors after 30 years.

He was known for his dependability, generosity and ability to bring people together.

Ben loved his family. He was a wonderful husband, dad, grandpa, son, caregiver, brother and friend.

On Sept. 9, 1977, Ben and Debbie married. Together, they welcomed sons Steven in 1979 and Shane in 1983.

Ben and Debbie enjoyed traveling, especially to Mexico, Florida and Colorado; and visiting family over the years.

In 2007, he donated a kidney to his stepmother, Vickie, and continued to be her caregiver until her passing in 2019.

Ben enjoyed being a grandfather and spending time with his grandkids. Ben loved to share stories, and his laughter would fill the room.

In his free time, Ben enjoyed golfing, tailgating at Royals and Mizzou games, watching sports, listening to music, and hanging out in his garage with Doug and Richard. He loved sports, and he amassed a large collection of Royals and George Brett memorabilia. Royals opening day games he shared with Debbie, his sons and friends are fond memories.

Ben also was an active member of the Excelsior Springs Quarterback Club for many years.

In addition to his wife, Debbie (McGaugh) Hankins, Ben is survived by his sons, Steven (Amy) Hankins and Shane (Danielle) Hankins; and grandchildren, Emily, Ben, Natalie, Ryan, Colin and Maggie. He also is survived by sister, Dorothy Menegatos (Nathan); brothers, James (Mariana) Hankins and Tim (Barbara) Hankins; and many in-laws, nephews and nieces.

Ben was preceded in death by his mother, Sarah; father, Ben Hankins Jr.; and brother, Billy D. O’Dell.

A visitation will be held 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the First United Methodist Church of Excelsior Springs.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.