Donald Hanson

Donald Ray Hanson, 85, passed away peacefully at his home on January 14, 2026, surrounded by his family. Donald was born on July 24, 1940, in Thomaston, GA.

Donald was raised in a small mill village called Silvertown which later became the modern day Thomaston. He attended school in Thomaston, GA where he met his childhood sweetheart and wife of 65 years, Claudette Duncan Hanson in the first grade. He graduated from R.E. Lee High School in 1959. After graduation, Donald married his childhood sweetheart Claudette Duncan Hanson.

His work career began when he joined the U.S. Army after graduation. After his service in the Army, Donald and his wife moved to Warner Robins, GA where his civil service career began at Robins Air Force Base. He worked for 40 years as an electrician and supervisor before his retirement. During this time, for many years he also ran his own business called Don’s Electric. After his retirement he went to work for Madison Research for several years until his second retirement. During this time he made many friends in which he cherished very much.

Donald was a man of many hobbies, all of which included the outdoors. He loved to fish, play golf and especially enjoyed hunting. He made lifelong memories hunting with his grandsons and great-grandsons. He was a hero in every sense of the word. With the biggest heart, he never hesitated to help anyone in need, always putting others before himself. Fiercely loyal and deeply devoted, he was the strong protector and steady security for his family, always ensuring they felt safe, loved, and supported. He served on the board of directors for Robins Financial Credit Union for 29 years. He was a member of The Bridge Church and enjoyed helping wherever he could.

Donald was a family man. He was proud of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He always enjoyed big cookouts and get togethers where the whole family was there to fellowship with one another.

He was preceded in death by his parents Lewis and Irabelle Hanson; his infant son Michael Ray Hanson; his brothers Wilbur Hanson and Phillip Hanson; and son-in-law Victor Griggs.

His memory will be forever cherished in the hearts of his loving wife of 65 years Claudette Hanson; his children, Debra Griggs and Donna Josie; his grandchildren, Brooke Josey (Erin), Casey Tischer (Rodney), Brad Ard (Emily), Hunter Josie and Cameron Josie; 9 great-grandchildren; brother Gary Hanson (Terri); and sister-in-law Judy Hanson.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2026 from 5:00pm-7:00pm at McCullough Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Monday, January 19, 2026, at 2:00pm in the chapel at McCullough Funeral Home with Brother Mike Parker officiating. Interment will follow at Magnolia Park Cemetery.

Go to www.mcculloughfh.com to sign the Online Registry for the family. McCullough Funeral Home and Crematory has the privilege of being entrusted with these arrangements.