Thomas L. Jankans

Tommy loved his family most of all and never missed a chance to let them know it.

Homegoing Services will be held for Tommy from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Saturday, March 20, 2021 at 11:00AM (VIEWING:10:00AM – 11:00AM) with the Rev. Dr. Patricia McAllister officiating. Interment will follow in Habecker Mennonite Cemetery.

Tommy Jankans Picture.jpg

Thomas Luther Jankans, 74, of Columbia, PA transitioned from Earth to his Heavenly home on Monday, March 15, 2021 at the Lancaster General Hospital. Born on July 18, 1946 he was the son of the late Luther Charles Gilbert Sr. and Estella Jankans Henderson. He was the grandson of the late Catherine and William “Honey” Jankans who raised him. 

He retired from Harris Hub where he was employed in Production. He was a member of the former Harvey T. Makle American Legion Post #722. Tommy, affectionately known as “TJ” or “Jinks”, was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and hosting cookouts or playing cards. Christmas was his favorite time of year, and his tradition was hosting a Holiday Open House where everyone would come to see his beautifully decorated Christmas Trees. He was loved and respected by everyone. He loved his family most of all and never missed a chance to let them know it. On April 2, 2020, Tommy made the best decision of his life when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his brothers: Luther Gilbert of Marietta, PA., Warren Gilbert (Gail), Eugene Gilbert, Bruce Gilbert and Tony Henderson (Sonia) all of Columbia, PA., and Shawnte Henderson of York, PA., his sisters: Cora Dowdle (Larry), Joanne Gilbert (Rosemond), Diane Parker all of York, PA., Beverly Sloan (Melvin) of Seneca, SC., Gloria Boyer (William) of Lancaster, PA., Cathy Sanders (Charles) of Marietta, PA., Judith Benson (George), Ruth Mae Colon (Robert), Joyce Gilbert, Christine Gilbert, and all of Columbia, PA., and Brenda Graham (Ronald) of Kannapolis, NC., his Goddaughter Nena Gilbert of York, PA., and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was predeceased by sisters: Rosalie Gilbert, and Kay Velez and brothers: Ostell Henderson, Jr. and Gerald Henderson.

Homegoing Services will be held for Tommy from the Clyde W. Kraft Funeral Home, Inc. 519 Walnut St., Columbia, PA on Saturday, March 20, 2021 at 11:00AM (VIEWING:10:00AM – 11:00AM) with the Rev. Dr. Patricia McAllister officiating. Interment will follow in Habecker Mennonite Cemetery.

The family requests that flowers be omitted. Memorial Contributions in Tommy's memory may be made to the Mt. Zion AME Church, 222 S. 5th St. Columbia, PA 17512


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