Doris Joy Montgomery Hanks

February 19, 1930 - June 20, 2020

Doris Joy Hanks, 90, went to be in the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on June 20, 2020. Born February 19, 1930, in Lawn, Texas, she was the youngest of six children born to J.W. and Constance (Cook) Montgomery.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Samuel Richard “Dick” Hanks; her parents; three sisters and two brothers. Doris is survived by daughters, Marla Bridges and Brenda Huffman (Larry) of Hot Springs. Grandchildren: Stacey Roberts – Air Force Technical Sergeant (Tim) Patrick Bridges – Navy Petty Officer 1st Class (Amy) Lucas Hutcheson Jonathan “Hunter” Loy (Erin) Benjamin “Chase” Loy Six Great-Grandchildren

She was a charter member of Hot Springs Baptist Church and the Elizabeth Sunday School Class.

Doris was a real estate agent for Young’s Real Estate in Malvern, Arkansas, for many years. She later earned a degree from the Institute of Insurance at LSU, Baton Rouge, Louisiana and began working for Union Life Insurance Company in Little Rock, Arkansas. In 1973 she was awarded the “Union Life’s First Lady” of the Wall of Fame, along with “Rookie of the Year”. Doris enjoyed living and boating on Lake Hamilton. Her hobbies included oil painting, cooking, sewing, but most of all spending time with her family. Her grandchildren loved her special “lemon meringue pies” and her cookie jar was always filled with homemade “chocolate chip cookies”.

Our mother touched many lives with her kindness, caring, and comforting words. She put others first all through her life. Her generosity was unsurpassed. Our hearts are filled with gratitude to so many. Your kindness will always be remembered by our family.

Nancita Winkle and the staff of Gratitude of Hearts Elderly Care for the special love and care of “Mama Doris”. Nina Alter, Administrator of Garrett Woods Senior Living. The respect and care of her team of health professionals and caregivers gave purpose and fun times to our mother’s life as her health declined. The Elizabeth Sunday School Class at Hot Springs Baptist Church. Their correspondence and phone calls that delighted our mother and kept her involved with all that shared her Christian faith. Liz Roberts, Trina Smith, Rev. Mike and Brenda Smith, and Arkansas Hospice Chaplain Teddy Frye, friends and neighbors that kept her in their prayers.

She will be missed by all, but we have wonderful memories that will last us a lifetime. Due to COVID-19, her life will be celebrated in a private family graveside service with Brother Mike Smith officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to your choice of charity.