John Hancock

1949 - 2025

A celebration of John Hancock's life will be held at the Lagarde Family Farm at 770 County Road 607 in Piedmont, Alabama, on June 14, 2025, at 11:00 am. All who loved him are welcome to attend. John lived a life full of adventure, creativity, and love for those around him. Nothing made him happier than a crisp spring morning in the turkey woods or a quiet evening waiting for a whitetail. He was a passionate hunter, always eager to swap stories about the ones that got away and the rare mornings when everything went just right. Whether he was sharing a tale, casting a line in his favorite fishing spot, or just joyriding on his side by side, John found joy in the simple pleasures of the outdoors. Born in St. Francis, Kansas, in 1949, John grew up learning the ways of Kansas farmers then moved to several places before he always liked to say he "ran away from home" and joined the military to fight in the Vietnam War. He became a Green Beret and served as a Weapons Sergeant on a Special Forces A-Team. In 1973, John moved to the Anniston area to work for his grandfather, John B. Lagarde, in the family business. While building a career, he also nurtured his artistic talents. John studied art in college and became a skilled sculptor working in ceramics, metals, and other materials. Some of his pieces are on permanent display at the Anniston Museum of Natural History, where they stand as a testament to his creativity. John was preceded in death by his parents, John Harvey and Joan Hancock; his sister, Susan Benkelman; and his brother-in-law, Bill Benkelman. He is survived by his children and their families, whom he adored, David and Misty Hancock and their children Kaylee and Alexander; Jenifer and Jason Wisniewski and their children Joanne Elizabeth "JoLiz" and Ezekiel; Brandon and Beverly Marbut and their children Lydia, Mary Chapel, and Ava. He is also survived by his former spouse (and still beloved friend), Connie Durham the mother of David and Jenifer, his nephews, John Benkelman (wife Heather and son Hans) and Barry Benkelman (wife Susan and sons Will and Jack), and his cousin, Edith Kennedy. To countless others, he was simply "Hi Pop" a title he cherished more than any medal or trophy. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the National Deer Association or any wildlife conservation organization. John would be thrilled to know you were helping to keep the great outdoors just a little wilder. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.klbrownfuneralhome.com.
K.L. Brown Funeral Home & Crematory
322 Nisbet Street NW
Jacksonville, AL 36265
256.435.7042