Read Michael "Mike" William Hanks's Obituary & Leave Condolences

In memory of

Michael "Mike" William Hanks

Celebration, FL

November 26, 1968 - August 27, 2025

Nov 26, 1968 - Aug 27, 2025

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Michael "Mike" Hanks passed away suddenly in the early hours of Wednesday, August 27th, 2025. He had recently moved to Celebration, Florida a short time before his passing.

Mike was born on a crisp Tuesday morning, November 26th, 1968, in Mobile, Alabama to Patricia Kay McInnes Hanks & James D. Hanks. He was a lover of music, especially rock and roll, and had a passion for sports, particularly Alabama Crimson Tide, Miami Dolphins, and Chicago Cubs. He enjoyed watching movies, exploring Orlando, Universal and Disney themes, and collecting various items of interest. Above all, Mike cherished his family and friends. He found joy in witnessing a beautiful sunset over calm waters and loved open windows on a fall day, with the sounds of SEC football in the background—often paired with lively college pick 'em competitions with his good friend, Melissa Drish.

He is survived by his beloved mother, Patricia Kay McInnes Hanks; his brother, David S. Hanks (and his wife Tina); his sister, Jamie E. Hanks Allen (and her husband David); nephews Matthew Jared Allen and Benjamin Leroy Allen; nieces Clarissa Elisabeth Allen, Haley Platt, and Erica Goleman; his uncle, David Braswell; and numerous cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Mike also leaves behind Ashleigh Valdes, his chosen family and 'niece' by love, whom he guided and cared for as his own.

He was predeceased by his father, James D. Hanks; his maternal grandparents, Carl W. McInnes and Betty McInnes; his aunt, Debi McInnes Braswell; and his paternal grandparents, Rodrick and Margaret Hanks.

Mike attended grade school in Visalia, California, and Des Moines, Iowa. He graduated from W.P. Davidson High School in Mobile, Alabama. Proud of his service to his country, Mike served in the U.S. Navy from 1988 to 1992, where he served alongside his longtime friend, Paul Oxley, and then as a Merchant Marine from 1992 until 2025.

Mike will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He was a giving, empathetic soul, a true friend to everyone fortunate enough to share their lives with him.

Rock on & Roll Tide Forever