James McIlwee Hankins

James McIlwee Hankins, fondly known as Jim, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, at the age of 90, surrounded by his devoted children and grandchildren. Born in Washington, D.C., Jim was the only child of James McKenzie Hankins and Hattie Louise McIlwee. His family moved to Hartsville, South Carolina, in December 1941 and even then, his innate drive began to show through his remarkable accomplishments. He earned the Eagle Scout rank in Boy Scouts and his outstanding performances in high school sports as both a star quarterback and pitcher led his teams to the state championship finals. 

Jim’s academic journey set a solid foundation for his lifelong commitment to excellence. He graduated cum laude with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of South Carolina in 1956. His dedication to service led him to the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a second lieutenant on active duty in the Research and Development Command at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. Following his military service, Jim furthered his education with a full scholarship to attend Harvard Business School, earning his MBA in June 1961 - a milestone that paved the way for his distinguished career. 

Beginning his professional life in sales and sales management with IBM in Washington, D.C., Jim’s career soon evolved into groundbreaking enterprise. In 1968, he relocated to Denver, Colorado, where he co-founded Mobile Home Communities, a real estate investment trust funded through a public stock offering. As CEO of the company for many years, he distinguished himself as a visionary leader and earned membership in the prestigious Young Presidents Organization (YPO), an international association of chief executive officers. 

In February 1969, Jim married Sarah Wickerink, and together they nurtured a loving family with their three children - Eden, Justin, and Jared. Jim’s heart was equally devoted to his extended family, leaving behind his beloved grandchildren Layne Ware, Tess Ware, Ivy Hankins, Cora Hankins, Blake Hankins, Beckett Hankins, Ember Hankins, and two step-grandchildren, Hailey and Sophia Pulcino. 

A man of strong faith and service, Jim’s life took on another enriching chapter in 1993 when he married Reverend Margaret Rush Hankins, an ordained pastor in the United Methodist Church. For twenty-five years, their partnership was inspiring as they led mission trips to Russia, Kenya, and The Holy Land, and traveled frequently to Asia to visit Margaret’s sons and their families. 

Jim’s commitment to his community was profound and far-reaching. Throughout his years in Denver, he served as board president for organizations such as the Denver Children’s Home, Geneva Glen Camp, and the Samaritan Institute Foundation. In 2013, the Samaritan Institute recognized Jim and Margaret with a National Award for their exemplary charitable, religious, and political contributions. He served as a trustee for Kent Denver School, and as a dedicated Rotarian, he was honored by the Interact Club of Thomas Jefferson High School for his generosity and unwavering support of young people, a passion that resonated deeply with him. 

Following Margaret’s passing in 2018, Jim spent his final years at Holly Creek Retirement Community, where his enduring spirit continued to make a difference. Actively involved in various programs as a member of both the Volunteer Advisory Committee and the Spiritual Life Committee, he also co-founded the “Conversations That Matter” project, facilitating inspiring discussions on religion, politics, and culture. His genuine kindness and commitment to meaningful dialogue left an indelible mark on his community. 

Jim’s memoir, Odyssey of Hope, has been a source of inspiration and reflection for family, friends, members of the Hope Methodist Church congregation, residents and staff at Holly Creek, and the dedicated caregivers who supported him. He will forever be remembered as a man of intellect, wisdom, dry humor, and compassion - a true example of the power of presence and service. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched, reminding us that the greatest gift we can offer is our genuine care for one another. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, July 12, at 1:00 PM at Hope United Methodist Church, located at 5101 S Dayton St, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Hope United Methodist Church.