Philip Gaffney Hanson

Rev. Philip Gaffney Hanson 

Sunrise: June 5, 1941 – Sunset: October 16, 2025

With profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Rev. Philip Gaffney Hanson, beloved husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather, and faithful shepherd to countless souls. He departed this life peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on October 16, 2025, at the age of 84.

Born in Danville, Illinois, Philip was a man of unwavering faith, boundless compassion, and quiet strength. He married his sweetheart, Telkia Hanson, with whom he shared 58 beautiful years of love, laughter, and partnership in mission and pastoral work. Together, they raised two children—Daniela and Eber —instilling in them the values of godly love, kindness, humility, and service.

Philip answered the call to ministry and spent over two decades pastoring churches in Brazil, most notably founding the Church of Reconciliation in Campinas, Sao Paulo, where he served for 12 years. His sermons were known for their warmth, wisdom, and gentle conviction. He baptized generations, officiated weddings, comforted the grieving, and never failed to visit the sick and help the poor. To his congregation, he was more than a pastor—he was family.

Outside the pulpit, Philip was a loving husband, father, and grandfather to four grandchildren, each of whom knew him as their listener in chief for all their stories. He loved God, family, people, classical music, and good food.

Rev. Hanson’s legacy is one of love, faith, and service. He was preceded in death by his parents Ray and Mary Ellen and his sister Virginia. He is survived by his beloved wife Telkia, his children Eber and Daniela; his daughter-in-law Erika and son-in-law Oscar; his four grandchildren, Helena, Stella, Luis, and Lorenzo; his sisters Susan and Carol and brother-in-law Bill; nieces and nephews both in the U.S. and in Brazil; his church family; and a community forever touched by his grace.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 4th, 2025 at 2:00 pm at the Falls Church Anglican - Cranmer Chapel located at 6565 Arlington Boulevard, Falls Church, VA 22042 - 3rd Floor.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23