Her Legacy

Mrs. Gracie C. Hancock was born October 14, 1939, to the union of the late Grady and Bessie Byrd Wilkins. On Wednesday, November 29th she peacefully transitioned to her Heavenly Home, surrounded by her loving family.

She grew up in Athens, Georgia, attending Union Baptist Institute and Athens High and Industrial Schools, graduating in 1959. She joined the Hill Chapel Baptist Church at an early age and was a faithful member. She retired from Champion International Dairy Pak in 2002, after 34 years of service.

Gracie's family was the center of her world. She took on the responsibility of caring for several generations, in her home, which included her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren earning her the title "Gran Gran".

Her legacy is one of love, compassion, and enduring faith that inspired all who were fortunate enough to know her. Gracie was a devoted and cherished mother, grandmother, and loyal friend. She lived life without regrets and touched the lives of countless people through her acts of kindness, generosity, and love leaving an irreplaceable mark on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, son Keith Champion, sister Jeanette Rucker, and niece Virginia "Gina Rose" Wilkins.

She leaves to celebrate and cherish her memories, a loving daughter Michelle Stroud (Richard); 3 sons, Zachary Champion, Sr., Michael Champion (Denise), and McNeal Hancock III (Justine); grandchildren and great-grandchildren raised in the home Damien Gary,  Zachary Champion Jr., Brandon Stroud, Raven Glenn, Jasmine Champion, Brandi Jones, Tynia Pittard, Zyiere and Nyla Champion. Other grandchildren, granddaughter, Keita Champion; grandsons Duvieriux Jones, and Savion Taylor. GGC, Jalen, Chandler, Jakia, Damien Elijah, Carsyn, Chloe, Cian, Rickie, Riley, Torenze, Tariq, Khirhyatkee Jr, Zion, and Kennedy. 1 GGGC Kailynn. Her nieces and loving caretakers Eleanor and LaVerne Fortson; companion Dennis Thurmond; bonus daughter Doneeka Cooper; childhood best friend Mrs. Audrey Smith; favorite cousin Stephanie "Stevie" Byrd, and a host of other relatives and friends.