Robert Erastus Hanks

I want to extend my deepest sympathy to you in your loss. Coach Hanks was a very positive influence on all of the young men under his tutelage at UMS, both in the classroom and on the field of play. I truly admired him. The last time I saw him was at Perry and Molly Lowery's 50th Wedding Anniversary. I always enjoyed seeing and talking with him. He was such a gentleman.

I attribute much of my success in life to having known him and to frequently being the recipient of his wise...

To the Hanks Family: The three H's (Hanks, Hinson and Huckabee) all were part of my life at UMS. Be thankful that you were able to enjoy Col. Hanks for 40 years after Bob and I graduated. As I grow older, I appreciate the people who influenced my life and help mold me into who I am today. Col. Hanks was certainly everything you could have ever wanted as a Father, a teacher, a Coach and a friend. My God continue to hold you in His care. Randy Speas Class of '69

June 3, 2009
I have just learned of Coach Hanks death and I send my deepest sympthay to Mrs Hanks and family. Coach Hanks was an inspiration to me as a student at UMS which has been a part of me during my lifetime. I lost my wife, Millie a year ago this week, and I understand the loss and void; but with the love of family & friends, I am doing fine. John A Holman, Class of 1952

As a UMS Student, my life was shaped by the investment of Col. Hanks. I specifically remember Col. Hanks challenge to the corp on the topic of "Self Disciple". It has been 34 years since I graduated UMS, but this truth lives on in my life today. Thanks Col. Hanks...

UMS '75

Our prayers are for you for God's grace, comfort, and peace to be ever present at this time.

There were several coaches and teachers at UMS that made a large impact on my life. Coach Hanks was number one. I first met him in 1952 at Dauphin Way. The next year I started at UMS and Coach Hanks was my Coach and Sunday School Teacher.The next 5 years under his coaching and teaching provided me with a foundation and model for my life that if followed would never fail. I am so very proud to say that he was my Coach and Mentor. Many feel the loss. If I can follow his example I know that I...

"All of the Garrisons had a deep love for R.E. we won't forget all that he did for so many folks. As a young girl in the 50's I remember what he did for my family. What a precious man. Bud, Ellen and Lorin Barr

Mrs. Hanks, Bob and Kathy, Words just cannot tell you how much Col. Hanks meant to the Glovers! He was truly the essence of a gentleman. It was a joy to work for him every single day --he always treated teachers like queens! His strong Christian values will always be felt by each young man in his care! I will never forget how he believed in self- discipline and as I teach Kindergarten in Knoxville I think of him so often as I try to instill that in my students! Please know that each of you...

Mrs. Hanks, Bob and Cathy, Words just can't say how much Col. Hanks meant to me! He was the essance of a gentleman and truly made going to work for him a joy every day! His strong Christian values will forever show in the lives of the many students under his care! I will never forget how he believed in self- discipline and even as I teach Kindergarten now in Knoxville I think of him so often and try to instill that trait in my children. Please know that each of you are in our thoughts and...