Paul Mitchell Hanberry

Paul Mitchell Hanberry, of Jackson County, MS, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on July 21, 2025. He was born on May 3, 1946, in the front bedroom of his parents, Cecil and Isadore Hanberry's home in Jasper County, MS.

Mitch's family moved to the Mississippi Gulf Coast when he was 14 years old. He graduated from Moss Point High School in 1966. He then joined his father and brother at Ingalls Shipbuilding, where he completed the electrical apprenticeship program. He worked as an instrumentation supervisor and was selected to participate in submarine sea trials - proof of his courage and can-do spirit.

He later started his own business, Hanberry's Refrigeration, where he worked as a skilled electrician and commercial refrigeration technician. Mitch earned a reputation for honesty and hard work. As his business grew, he was able to employ his dearest friend, the late Doug Smith, along with his son and sons-in-law.

Mitch was known for his gentle nature and free-spirited ways-the kind of man who lived in a treehouse and on a houseboat. He was happiest when close to the water and the people he loved, especially his beloved wife, the late Deborah Crowley Hanberry, his partner through every adventure.

A man of many passions, Mitch found peace on the water, spending countless hours boating and fishing. He loved the quiet patience of gardening, the joy of traveling to new places, and the satisfaction of building things with his hands. He also loved a good find at a yard sale and the timeless stories told in old Western movies. His storytelling, advice, and examples of compassion will live on in our hearts.

In addition to his parents and beloved wife, he was preceded in death by his son, Mark Christopher Hanberry.

Left to carry on the legacy of love is Tiki Simmons Steele, along with her children: David Lane Simmons III, Shara and Todd Butler with their children, Caden and Camrin.

Along with Jason and Jennifer Ratcliff and their children: Tyler and Nicole Ratcliff, with their daughter Vivi; Kolton and Amanda Ratcliff, with their children Krew and Kinley; and Dazy Ratcliff

Heather and Parker Bourque, with their children Jonah, Amelia, and Adalynn;

He is also lovingly remembered by his grandchildren through his son Chris Hanberry: Ashleigh Hanberry, with her children Maddox and Xander; Jamie and Jess Rubio, with their sons Aksel and Jaxxon; Brendi and JD McCabe, with their son Juuls; and Brileigh and Avery Hanberry.

Mitch will also be deeply missed by his brother, James Hanberry, and his wife, Claudia; his sisters and brother-in-law: Donna Pettit, Dorothy Griggs, and Fred Crowley; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and chosen family-those chosen not by blood, but by heart-whom Mitch and Deborah always cared for.

Memorial arrangements are still being planned and will be announced at a later date.

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