Tina M Hanks

Tina Marie Powers Hughes Hanks, 50, passed away at home on Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2015 after two courageous battles with cancer. She was a dear friend to many, as evidenced by the cavalcade of people who helped her fight her final battle. Born to Viola “Butchie” Mae Michetsch Powers and the late George Joseph Powers Jr. on May 23, 1965 in Bridgeport, Conn., she was predeceased by her father; maternal grandparents, Frank and Viola Michetsch; and paternal grandparents, George and Renee Powers. She is survived by her husband, Bryan Hanks of Kinston, N.C.; mother, Viola “Butchie” Mae Michetsch Powers of Jacksonville, N.C.; brother, Joseph Powers (wife, Lorraine) of Jacksonville; sister, Dena Powers of Raleigh, N.C.; niece, Maria Powers of Raleigh; nephews, Justin, Cameron, Jared and James Powers of Jacksonville; and her beloved dog, Molly. After graduating from White Oak High School in Jacksonville in 1983, Tina attended Pfeiffer College in Misenheimer, N.C., and later graduated from Wake Technical Community College in Raleigh with a degree in nursing. She was an employee of the U.S. Postal Service from 1986 until she passed. Tina was a diehard Duke basketball fan who was ecstatic to see her Blue Devils win their fifth national championship on April 6, 2015. The family wishes to express their gratefulness to Dr. Frances Collichio and Paula Landman (nurse navigator) of the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center in Chapel Hill; and Pam Henderson of Transitions Hospice of Wake County, all who provided loving care to Tina in her battle against melanoma. A memorial service will begin promptly at 2 p.m. (with reception to follow) on Saturday, Aug. 22 at 143 Summit Ave., Raleigh, to remember all the good times shared with Tina; dress comfortably for the service (Tina would want you to wear your flip flops). In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in Tina’s name be made to the Lenoir County SPCA (2455 Rouse Road Ext., Kinston, N.C., 28504) or the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center (101 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, N.C., 27514).