Roll Call Tribute

Leslie Earl "Les" Hanks 

March 5, 1942 - September 10, 2024 

Leslie Earl Hanks, 82, passed away September 10, 2024, at home.

The funeral service will be held at 11:30 a.m., Monday September 16, 2024, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey Funeral Home with Senior Pastor, Steve Heyduck officiating. Interment will follow at Waco Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., Sunday September 15, 2024, at Wilkirson-Hatch-Bailey in the Garden Room.

Leslie preferred to be called Les, but he was better known as Dad and Papaw to the many kids and grandkids that he loved and that loved him. Les was born in 1942, in Corsicana, Texas. He started working at a very young age in Waco, Texas, to make sure his mom had enough to take care of him and his brother. He possessed this strong work ethic and desire to be a caretaker for his loved ones ‘till the end.

Les attended Texas A&M University, graduating in 1964. He was a Fightin’ Texas Aggie his whole life. On February 19, 1965, Les married the love of his life Kay Hanks. At the time of his death, they were married for 59 years. Les became a CPA after college and was well known for his business acumen and his unparalleled integrity. He loved horses, was an avid reader, enjoyed watching old Western movies and his Aggies every time possible.

Les was preceded in death by his mother, Callie Hanks; and his father, Edwin Hanks.

Survivors include his wife, Kay Hanks; and his three children, Les Hanks, Jr., Lisa Hanks and Deana Bauerle. Les is also survived by his grandchildren, Cameron, Sylvia, Stephani, Hannah, Mary and Josh; his brother, Don Hanks; and great-grandchildren, Tripp, Emma and Tuff.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory on Les’ “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.