James (Jim) Arthur Hankins, 88, of West Lafayette, passed away Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at his residence.  He was born September 29, 1931, in Rensselaer, IN, to the late James A. and Alice Blue Hankins.  Jim attended Jefferson High School Class of 1950 and graduated from Purdue University Class of 1954 with a degree in agronomy.  A veteran of the U.S. Army, Jim Served during the Korean War after which he worked for many years for Eli Lilly and Elanco Products retiring in 1993.

In 1998 he married Patricia Blue where they enjoyed a full life traveling and spending time with family and friends. Patricia’s daughters, Linda and JoAnn brought him much joy and laughter. In 2016, after residing in Seneca, SC, and Atlanta Ga. Patricia and Jim returned to what he always considered his home in Lafayette IN.

Jim was an active member of Covenant Presbyterian Church, and loved Boilermaker basketball.  An historian by heart Jim completed his family genealogy going back eleven generations.  Jim was active in the Rotary, Lilly Nature center, and as a ‘Son of the American Revolution’ he participated in numerous SAR events and parades.

Surviving are his wife, Patricia M. Hankins of West Lafayette, IN, son Joseph A. Hankins, daughter Julie Anne Gibson, daughter, Sarah Jane Wright, son James G. Hankins, brother Tad Hankins, sister, Susan Swynford.

Jim was extremely proud of his 16 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Jane E. Graham Hankins, and sister Diane M. Hankins Wallenmeyer.

Service will be at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at Rest Haven Memorial Park 1200 Sagamore Pkwy. N. Lafayette, IN.  Pastor Roby Eyman officiating.  Interment will be at Rest Haven Memorial Park, IN.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are to the Lilly Nature Center,  donations should be made out to The Celery Bog Account and mailed to: Dan Dunten, West Lafayette Parks & Recreation, 1200 N. Salisbury St., West Lafayette, IN. 47906