Emma Frances (Hancock) Stankey

Memorial services for Emma Stankey, 81-year-old Thomas resident, were held on Friday, Sept 25, 2020 at Bethany Brethren in Christ Church in Thomas with Pastor James Rainwater officiating.

Emma Frances Hancock Stankey was born on August 8, 1939 in Wapanucka, OK to Roy and Florence (Barrett) Hancock and went to be with Jesus on September 14, 2020 in Weatherford, OK.

As a small child, Emma moved to California and attended school in Vallejo and Livermore.  She fell in love with Jesus as a little girl and followed Him all her life.  In 1955, Emma married Richard S. Stankey.  Her life was busy as she raised their 4 children and worked outside the home in a variety of occupations.  Emma and Richard were called into gospel ministry and pastored churches in several states, including Nebraska and Arizona.  She was an avid Bible student and loved to tell others about the Lord.

In 2016, Emma moved to Thomas, OK to live near her sister's family.  She quickly made friends and enjoyed lunches and dominoes at the Senior Citizens center, Tuesday morning Bible study at the Baptist Church, and regularly attending Bethany Brethren in Christ Church.

Emma had a gift for creating beauty around her.  Hobbies included metal detecting, wood burning, painting and drawing, coloring, writing, and reading.  Her beautiful crochet doilies and tablecloths were freely shared with friends and family, and she loved crocheting baby hats for the local hospital. She found great joy in writing letters and encouraging people in their walk with Jesus.

Emma is survived by her husband Richard Stankey of Sacramento, CA, daughters Sandra Berzinas and Cheryl McKee of CA, 11 grandchildren and many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Helen (Hancock) Rye, brother William Charles Hancock, son Michael Stankey and daughter Deborah Absten.

Arrangements are under the direction of OK Cremation & Funeral Home, Oklahoma City, OK.