Don James Hancock

Heyworth- Don James Hancock ,76, passed away on April 23, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family after a nine-year battle with kidney cancer.
Don was born on February 1, 1950, in Bloomington, IL; son of Claud and Audrene (Lee) Hancock. He married Diana Mowbray, on June 23, 1972. She survives.
Also surviving are his children: Mindy (Shane) Arndt (Fisher, IL), Mark (Jessica) Hancock (Groveland, IL), and Megan (Dave) Tjaden (Heyworth, IL); eight grandchildren: Kylan Arndt, Jesse Arndt, Jake Hancock, Samantha Hancock, Aly Hancock, Emma Tjaden, Blake Tjaden, and Sophia Tjaden; his siblings: Ken (Vicki) Hancock (Gulf Shores, AL), Tom (Jayne) Hancock (St. Joseph, IL), Rick Hancock (Heyworth, IL), sister-in-law Lisa (Larry) Fields (Bloomington, IL); along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
Don was a graduate of Heyworth High School and Illinois State University. He worked for State Farm Insurance for 29 years and was vital to the development of the Special Investigative Unit - General Claims. He attended the United Church of Heyworth, serving as a trustee and volunteer for the community food pantry. He was a driver for the Heyworth ambulance service along with being a former school board member. He also enjoyed coaching and serving as a board member for the Heyworth Summer League for many years. Don was always on the lookout for an investment property and was proud of his senior living apartments.
Don loved showing off his 1956 Chevy in the local parades and various car shows. He could be found taking the grandkids for rides in the car, which he affectionately called the “Old Beater”.
Don never met a stranger and was well loved by his small-town community. He loved helping others. Above all he loved spending time with his grandchildren; especially when it came to their sporting events. Don’s smile and positive attitude will be greatly missed by his family, friends and community.
A celebration of Don’s life will be at the United Church of Heyworth on Monday, May 25, 2026 from 1:00-3:30 PM.
Memorials may be made to the United Church of Heyworth, Heyworth Community Food Pantry, or the Heyworth Ambulance Service.