He served in the United States Air Force during Vietnam and received a combat metal for valor. His training in the Air Force ultimately led to a life-long career. Jerry worked 39 years as an air traffic controller for the Federal Aviation Administration, retiring as a supervisor.
Jerry married Mary Deanna Sheely on April 19, 1980. He was a loving husband and a father to four children. He was also a proud granddad.
Needless to say, Jerry was anything but average and a natural born leader. Jerry had a giving spirit and a fascination with magic that began at a very young age. He used to perform shows in grade school with his brother Rodney and built many of his own illusions. He even used his talents on stage to benefit charity organizations like the Shriners Hospitals for Children and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Jerry also enjoyed being immersed in nature. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.
He was raised a Master Mason on August 23, 1983 and he always had a passion for serving. He loved Masonry and all of the organization associated with it, including the Shriners, York Rite, Scottish Rite, Red Cross of Constantine, etc. He was selected Most Worshipful Grand Master, Free and Accepted Masons of Tennessee on March 27, 2008.
Mr. Hanson is survived by his wife of 40 years Mary; sons Timothy Christopher Hanson and Bradley Douglas Hanson; daughters Amanda Michelle Hanson and Shelley Hanson McElveen; son-in-law Matthew Jared McElveen; grandson Ezekiel; grandson to be Isaac; brother James T. Gavigan and family; along with nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, January 29 at 2:00 PM at Memphis Funeral Home on Poplar Avenue with interment to follow at Memphis Memory Gardens on Raleigh Lagrange Road. CDC guidelines will apply, including masks and social distancing. Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, space will be limited, but the service can also be viewed virtually. Online condolences may be expressed through www.memphisfuneralpoplar.com.
In lieu of flowers, if you choose to do so, memorial gifts may be made to: The Shriners Hospitals for Children, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or New Hope Christian Church.
