Humility, self-discipline, honor, unpretentiousness, patience and a sense of justice and love are characteristics describing “Coach” Jack G. Hanson, who passed away on January 6, 2015 after lengthy illnesses.
He was born February 23, 1927 in Roanoke, Ala., the son of Dr. Douglas and Mrs. Annie Gooden Hanson.
After graduating from Handley High School in Roanoke, Jack joined the U.S. Army during World War II. Following his discharge, Jack received a football scholarship to Georgia Tech, but after injuring his shoulder, he became a student of the University of Alabama and graduated. Then began his football and basketball career coaching at (Old) Campbell High School, M.D. Collins High School, and Riverdale Middle School. Coach Hanson graduated from the University of Georgia in 1973 with an M.Ed.
He loved coaching because he was able to influence teenagers in their lives, sometimes serving as surrogate Dad. During training his commands were “do your bear crawls and run laps.” His students respected and loved him and have many stories about life with Coach Hanson. He received many awards for coaching, i.e. Coach of the year in 1953 and 1954 from Georgia Athletic Coaches Association and Clayton County Champions in 1951-1952.
Coach Hanson was a rich man – not in money, but in his friends, students, and relatives who loved him. He coached football and basketball at Riverdale Middle School for $100 a month and all the change in the drink machine. He loved the kids and his life was an example for them to follow.
Jack’s private life was a blessing, as he married Beverly Hitchcock Cogbill in 1976. They were married almost 40 years, and their lives were filled with love and laughter. They lived in Peachtree City for 26 years.
Survivors include his beloved wife, Beverly; son, Greg Hanson; stepsons, Joe (Ginger) Cogbill, Tom Cogbill; grandchildren, Alisha, Brett, and Stephanie, and three great-granddaughters.
Memorial services will be held at Grace Episcopal Church, 422 Brenau Avenue, Gainesville, Ga., 30501 on Saturday, January 24, 2015 at 2 p.m.
An honorary escort composed of coaches and PE teachers he worked with are invited to be seated as a group to honor Jack during the memorial service. Please be at the church by 1:30 p.m.
Donations in Jack’s Memory may be made to Grace Episcopal Church in Gainesville, Ga. or to Episcopal Church of the Nativity in Fayetteville, Ga.
Those wishing to leave online condolences may do so at littledavenport.com.
Little & Davenport Funeral Home, 355 Dawsonville Hwy., Gainesville, Ga. 30501 is in charge of arrangements.
