John L. Hannon

John L. Hannon, age 88, passed away November 3, 2015. He was born in Red Bay Alabama on April 17, 1927 to Merlene and Elbert Owen Hannon. Shortly after, the family moved to Smithville, Mississippi. John graduated from Smithville High School and immediately enlisted in the Navy. After training, he volunteered for sea duty and served during WWII in the Pacific Theatre aboard the USS Cony. Following his military service, he earned his business degree from Draughon’s Business College in Memphis, TN. John then was employed by Wilson & Company where he had a successful Career.

In 1962, he moved his family to Jackson, MS where he opened Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurants of Mississippi. John was a long standing member of Southside Assembly of God Church where he served as a Trustee for many years. He was also an avid sportsman who especially enjoyed deer hunting and fishing; often flying his own plane to secluded spots like Chandelier Island for a few hours of fun. He enjoyed playing golf as a member of the Country Club of Jackson and the Mississippi Senior Golf Association. John was a voracious reader and always had books by his side.

John was preceded in death by his of 63 years, Lolita Starnes Hannon. He is survived by his sons Mike Hannon, Mitch and his wife Becky Hannon, Kirk and his wife Stacey Hannon and his grandchildren, Kenzie, John Porter, Elizabeth and Caroline.

A Funeral service will be held Friday November 6, 2015 at 11:00am with a visitation 1 hour prior to service at Parkway Funeral Home 1161 Highland Colony Parkway, Ridgeland, MS. In lieu of flowers, The family requests that donations be made to Blair E. Batson Children’s Hospital 2500 N. State Street Jackson, MS 39216.