Elma (Slider) Hankins

Elma Slider Hankins, 96, died on September 3, 2025 after a short illness. Affectionately named “Elmo” by her eldest granddaughter. Elma was known for her beautiful red hair, strong Christian values as well as her love of Atlanta and choral music.

She was born in Atlanta in 1929 and grew up in her family home on Tenth Street next to Georgia Tech. Elma attended Home Park Elementary, O’Keefe middle and “Girls High” schools in Atlanta, Her 1947 senior class was the last class to graduate from “Girls’ High.” Elma then attended Shorter College from 1947-1951 in Rome, Georgia where she earned her BA degree and was president of the Student body. Elma also earned a Master’s degree from Georgia State University. She taught in City of Atlanta and Fulton County at Morningside, Dolvin and Newtown Elementary Schools.

The Baptist Tabernacle was her home church where she was active in the choir, Sunday School and outreach programs for underserved communities in Atlanta. It was at the Tabernacle that she began dating Billy (William) Hankins and they married there in 1951. Elma and Billy joined Wieuca Road Baptist Church in 1989 and enjoyed many years there. After retirement, Elma kept busy with her family, church and volunteer activities including work with women’s missionary “Internationals” group. She served as a docent at the High Museum of art. Music continued to be an interest throughout her life and she enjoyed participating in many music productions.

Elma was predeceased by her husband, William (Billy) Hankins, her parents, John & Annie Slider, and her dearly loved sister, Annie Mae Slider. Elma is survived by her sons Bill and John (Sue), four grandchildren, Leslie, Michele, Eric (Kirby), Will and two great grandchildren, Quinn and Graham. Elma was buried next to her husband of 67 years in a private family interment.

In lieu of flowers, if you are inclined, donations can be made to: UNICEF in honor of her career with children or FRIENDS OF REFUGEES in honor her missionary work. 

Scott Huskins Funeral & Cremation Services is in charge of the arrangements. 678.771.5566 | scotthuskins.com

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