James Anderson Hanna, Jr.

James Anderson Hanna, Jr. was born September 24, 1936 to James and Beulah Fails Hanna. He was greeted in the open arms of our Savior on January 11, 2023. His ancestors settled in Huntsville, Texas in the 1830's. He cherished the Lord. James was the oldest living continuous member of Cook Springs Baptist Church. He volunteered as Youth Director and he taught Sunday School classes. He loved to relate everyday experiences to bible scripture and stories every opportunity he had. James wore many hats; with the longest one being a lifelong rancher. He taught in Aldine School District for 17 years and was head of their math department. While also working as a cowboy for Mr. Doyle McAdams. Then he was a rural postal carrier in Walker County for 20 years. He also was a Sargent in the National Guard. Along with being a Tank Commander he was most proud of being a Preliminary Rifle Instructor. All of those who knew James knew he was an avid hunter. He took pride in being able to "put meat on the table". He also loved the simplistic beauty of nature, including the wildflowers, the animals and the birds. He commented several times how he loved God's creations wild and domestic. His favorite time of the day was sunrise, when the world would come alive with light and love. James was an avid gardener. He said he and his wife simply planted the seeds, but "the Lord grew the bounty". They were so blessed they were able to feed their family and friends. And still had an abundance so they headed to the original Walker County Farmers Market. There he made many new friends and renewed many more old friendships. James was preceded in death by his parents, James Alexander and Beulah Fails Hanna and his beloved grandmother "Granny" Catherine Fails. He is survived by Gina his wife; Jim and Tina Hanna, son and daughter-in-law; Terri and Steve Colley, daughter and son-in-law; Jonathan Hanna, grandson; Nathan and Natalee Hanna, grandson and wife, Tyler and Tanna Hanna, grandson and wife, Jason and Kriston Colley, grandson and wife, Derek Colley and Laura Barrow grandson and fiancé, along with seven great grandchildren. James is also survived by five step-children, Anthony Chortanoff, Christian Chortanoff, Nicholas Chortanoff, Stephen Chortanoff and Justin Chortanoff and eight step- grandchildren. The family also wishes to express their appreciation and love to the entire staff at 1st Choice Hospice. A special thank you to his nurses for their compassionate care for our loved one. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make donations in James' name to Cook Springs Baptist Church, 1936 TX-75, Huntsville, Texas 77320 or the charity of your choice. A visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at 10:00am, with services beginning at 11:00am, at Cook Springs Baptist Church in Huntsville, TX. Interment will follow a lunch reception at the church. He will be laid to rest at Petree Cemetery. Memorial condolences to the family may be made at www.shmfh.com.

James Anderson Hanna, Jr.

September 24, 1936 - January 11, 2023