Hampton-

Erma Louise Hankins Mitchell, age 81, passed away peacefully at her home on May 9, 2016, surrounded by family and friends after a long battle with cancer.  She was born on August 24, 1934, in Martinsville, Virginia, to the late George Moton Hankins and Lessie Mae Riddle Hankins. She was the sister to the late Moton Dudley Hankins and David Wayne Hankins.

In 1952, Erma married the love of her life, the late Harvey Edward Mitchell. They were parents to two children, the late Teresa Carol Mitchell and the late Gary Donald Mitchell. After her children were raised, she entered the work force as a Civil Service Employee working for the Naval Material Transportation Office where she made many lasting friends.

Erma enjoyed spending time with family and friends, cooking, gardening, shopping at yard sales and thrift stores, and finding a great bargain.

Erma was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, husband, and children. She leaves behind several nieces and nephews and many loving friends.

A celebration of Erma's life will be held 2pm on Saturday, May 21, 2016, at Parklawn Memorial Park, Hampton. A reception will follow at her home.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of choice.