Lt. Col. Thomas P. Hanisee USAF, (Ret.)

Lt. Col. Thomas P. Hanisee USAF, (Ret.), 81, passed away on June 5, 2026. Born April 30, 1945, he lived a life marked by steadfast service, deep devotion to family, and a quiet strength that showed itself most clearly in how faithfully he carried responsibility and how generously he gave his time to those he loved.

Lt. Col. Thomas P. Hanisee USAF, (Ret.) graduated from Louisiana Tech in 1967 and, after graduation, entered the United States Air Force as an officer. He served in Vietnam from 1968–1969 as a navigator in AC47, “Spooky.” From 1970–1973, he flew C141 transports returning deceased soldiers from Vietnam—work that required uncommon composure and unwavering dedication. After Vietnam, he flew training command as a navigation instructor and served at the Command Post at Altus Air Force Base. At Charleston Air Force Base, he flew numerous missions and was a part of the Volant Rodeo, the premier international airlift competition. He concluded his military career as the Chief Navigator of the United States Air Force Base at the Pentagon. Over the course of his service, he received more than 30 military medals, including the Master Navigator, Combat Action Ribbon with V and oak leaf cluster, Air Medal with oak leaf cluster, National Defense, Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with two gold stars, Vietnam Cross for Gallantry, Air Force Commendation Medal, along with many other awards and medals.

On August 13, 1972, he married his wife, Brenda Powers Hanisee. Together, they have five children. His commitment to those he loved was constant and unmistakable—expressed in presence, in loyalty, and in the steady way he made family the center of his life.

He loved playing cards and board games, especially with his grandchildren, and he was delighted in meeting them where they were—even making TikTok videos with them. He loved playing golf and enjoyed family get-togethers for any occasion, with summer pool time considered essential. Above all, he loved his family very much; they were his absolute everything to him.

He is survived by his wife, Brenda Jane Hanisee; children, Teri Kerr, Katherine Schell (Chris), Patrick Hanisee, and Robert Hanisee; grandchildren, Brenna Hanisee, Cullen Kerns, Sean Hanisee, Aidy Kerns, Alexandra Kerr and Lilly Hanisee; sisters, Mary Smith, Theresa Sollecito (Peter), Clem Caplis, Christine Wright (David) and Bobbie Sue Shelton (Ray); brothers, John Hanisee (Tricia), and Larry Hanisee; brother in laws, Gary Patton, Sr. and Richard Jones, Sr. He is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Irene Hanisee; son, Brandon Hanisee, brother; Henry Hanisee and sisters, Paula Jones and Ginny Patton.

A Rosary will be held at the Cathedral of St. Johns Berchmans on June 11th, 2026, at 9:30 am with a Memorial Service to follow.

A graveside service will be held at Hill Crest Memorial Funeral Home & Park on June 12th, 2026, at 10:00 am.