Bill Hanson, of Fort Smith, went to his heavenly home on May 8, 2021. Bill was born July 18, 1958, to the late J.B. “Jeep” Hanson and Margie Hanson. He was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Bob Hanson.
Bill was a 1976 graduate of Southside High School. He attended John Brown University on a tennis scholarship and graduated from Arkansas Tech University with a Bachelor of Science in Geology. He was a local business owner, entrepreneur, and real estate developer.
Bill was a friend to all, proud father, caring husband, and loved a good joke. He tried to lighten and bring joy to every situation he found himself in. Bill had such a kind heart; he never met a stranger and lent a hand to everyone in any way he could. He loved tennis and enjoyed being able to pass on his knowledge to many students over the years. Teaching and guiding others with a smile and a hearty laugh. Bill cared deeply about his community, mentoring many. He loved everyone he ever met and found joy in putting a smile on everyone’s face.
Bill is survived by his wife of 35 years, Kristy Miller Hanson and his two children, William Blake Hanson of Prescott, Mia Emaline Hanson of Fort Smith, niece Becky Horn of Foreman, AR, nephews; Jim Hanson of Fayetteville, Marshall Robinson of Van Buren, and Teryl Robinson of Bentonville.
Funeral will be 2:00 PM Saturday, May 15, 2021 at First United Methodist Sanctuary with burial at Roselawn Cemetery, under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Visitation will be in the Church Narthex, at 1:00 PM Saturday. Services will be streamed online on Fort Smith First United Methodist Church’s Facebook page.
Memorials can be made to; Western Arkansas Tennis Association, 3303 South M St., Fort Smith, AR 72903, UAFS Tennis, 5210 Grand Ave., Ft. Smith, AR 72913, or Glory Girl Foundation, P.O. Box 8332, Van Buren, AR 72956.
