Archie D Hannah

Archie Davis Hannah, Sr. transitioned from this life on Tuesday December 30, 2025, in Philadelphia, PA. He was born on July 26, 1931, to the late Lillie Mae (nee Kennedy) Hannah and Earten Hannah in McCool, MS. Archie's ninety-four years of life were rich and fulfilling.

Archie was the second oldest of eleven children and the oldest of three sons. He grew up on a farm in Mississippi and was a true "country boy." His responsibilities on his parents' farm built physical strength as well as strength of character. He learned about hard work and developed a strong work ethic that lasted throughout his life. He also learned the importance of having family as a foundation and of taking care of them.

While still a teenager, Archie migrated from his hometown in Mississippi to Philadelphia, PA in search of work opportunities. He lived with his Uncle Hughie and Aunt Bernice, who loved and supported him as if he were their own son. Under their guidance, Archie learned how to thrive in the big city. They helped him find employment and helped him establish a foundation for living independently.

Archie had a few different jobs but soon found his niche as a steamfitter and, subsequently, became a partner at Jones Pressing Machines. It was the only Black company in their industry in Pennsylvania. They worked with clothing manufacturers such as: Today's Man, Jones NY, After Six Tuxedoes, and Albert Nipon. In addition to working at Jones, Archie did independent work as a steamfitter. All his customers loved him because of how hard he worked, the quality of his work, and his amiable personality that enabled him to work well with everyone. He always had an inventive and entrepreneurial spirit. Later, he put those skills to work and sold rotisserie barbecue grills that he made from old oil drums. He took pride in his God-given talent of working with hands. One of his mantras was "If they can do it, I can learn to do it too. I just need to see them do it one time." After retiring in his eighties, he continued to work part-time at a dry cleaning company.

In 1951, Archie met the love of his life—Bessie. Both were members at Resurrection Baptist Church. They were introduced by Archie's Aunt Bernice and Bessie's Aunt Florien. Within one year, they fully committed themselves to each other in marriage on September 27, 1952. This began what would be sixty-five years of togetherness. In sickness and health, for better or worse, they stuck by each other. Whatever they experienced and dealt with, they did it together. They worked to build a wonderful life, which included raising their seven children. Family members and neighbors have praised them for the character and accomplishments of their children.

Archie always wanted the best for his family. In 1963, he bought a home in the West Oak Lane neighborhood of Philadelphia. This was a visionary move as they were one of the first Black families in that area. Archie was community-oriented and served as block captain for many years. He was well-respected by adults and young people alike. Additionally, he became a member of Mt. Airy Baptist Church on October 9, 1988.

Archie was affectionately known as Dee, Dad, Pop, Pop-Pop, Fathead, Bones, Poppa D, Uncle Dee, Uncle Archie, and Izzy. He found joy in: outdoor activities like fishing and gardening; rooting for Philly sports teams—especially the Eagles and Sixers; watching Westerns and cowboy movies on television; and supporting his great grandchildren (the "little mens" as he called them) at their soccer and flag football games. Until the end and despite having dementia, Archie continued to pray to God, ask for forgiveness, and praise Him.

Archie leaves to mourn: four siblings—Verdean, Betty, Jackie, and Kennedy; seven children—Archie Hannah Jr., Gregory Hannah, Linda Choice, Karen Hannah, Lori (Michael Sr.) Nutter, Michael (Anthea) Hannah, and Michele Hannah; twelve grandchildren—Tyrone (Latrice) Brown, Wayne Carter, Kimberly Hannah, Amber Hannah, Ashley Hannah, Kentara Hannah, Eddie (Shannon) Choice, Clarinda Choice, Jacquetta Nutter, Anita Nutter, Michelle (Davon Sr.) Dixon, and Nevaeh Hall; twenty great grandchildren; and a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and those he loved like family. Archie was predeceased by his wife Bessie Hannah; his oldest child Christine Carter; one grandson Michael Nutter Jr.; one granddaughter Miracle Hall; and seven siblings.