James Alan Hanks, lovingly known to many as “Big Jim,” passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, at Monument Health in Rapid City, surrounded by his family.
Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 2, 2026, at the Wessington Community Center, with visitation one hour prior. Burial will be at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Wessington, South Dakota.
James was born on March 9, 1960, in Miller, South Dakota, to Gerald and Mary (Oligmueller) Hanks. He was later raised by his stepfather, Vern Hill, who played an important and meaningful role in his life.
Big Jim was a fun-loving man who truly enjoyed life and the people around him. He was a caring brother, devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather. Family was always the most important part of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with those he loved most.
James had a deep love for the outdoors and could often be found hunting or fishing. He also enjoyed working with his hands and took great pride in his work. He dedicated over 30 years to Heavy Constructors in Rapid City, South Dakota, worked for five years at Casavan Apiaries, and spent several years working on and off at Vern’s Manufacturing.
Much of James’s free time was spent with his family, especially his children and grandchildren. He loved watching his two sons play basketball during their school years and was always proud to support them. He was also a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.
James is survived by his loving wife, Denise “Peach” Hanks; his son, Jimmy Hanks (Kimberlie and Hayes); his stepson, Michael Miller (Ellie and Aralynn); and his three loving brothers, John Hanks, Don Hanks (Linda, Jamie and Josh Walth, Amber and Spencer Allen, Katie and Andy Aukes), and Jerry Hanks (Shari, Justin and Kendra Hanks, Kevin Hanks).
He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Hill; his father, Gerald Hanks; his stepfather, Vern Hill; his son, Nick Hanks; his grandparents on both sides of the family; and several cousins.
James will be remembered for his big heart, strong work ethic, and the love he shared so freely with family and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family requests memorials to be directed to the Wolsey-Wessington School District, 375 Ash St, Wolsey, South Dakota 57384.
Reck Funeral Home of Miller has been entrusted with Jim’s arrangements.
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