Donnell's Story

On June 17, 1957, Donnell was the last child born to Jesse and Ervenia "Tiny" Hanson in the small town of Uncertain, hence the nickname "Babybrother." He was also known to some by the nickname "Heavy D." Raised in a loving, caring and nurturing environment, he was spoiled by everyone in the family.
Donnell created a large network of friends wherever he went. He attended Karnack ISD, graduating in 1976 with lifelong friends. He was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. After completing his military career, Donnell moved to Dallas, TX where he worked for the United States Postal Service, retiring in 2015 with 31 years of service.
At the post office, he met the love of his life, Rita F. Johnson, with whom he shared almost 22 years of marriage.
Donnell never met a stranger and was loved by everyone who met him. He lit up a room with his smile, laughter and jokes. With his rich love for life, Donnell knew how to have a good time and had a natural ability to lift spirits with a few words. Also, he loved to play dominos, watch sports and was an avid Cowboy fan.
Donnell's parents Jesse and Tiny Hanson and brothers, Frank "Bo" Russell, Eddie "Mack" Hanson, Jesse R. Hanson and sister, Gloria Hanson Irving preceded him in death.
He leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife Rita Hanson, two sons Donnell Hanson II and Jackie B. Johnson and a brother, Jack R. Hanson all of Dallas, TX; sisters, Mary (Lee Edward) Thomas of Karnack, TX and Francis (Leo) Haggerty of Houston, TX.   Brothers-in-law, Henry Irving of Karnack, TX, Rufus (Linda) High, Terry High and Donald Ray Hunter of Dallas, TX. Sisters-in-law, Claudia (Terry) Williams of Jackson, MS and Mildred Hanson of Cason, TX. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends. His sincere, honest and fun-loving nature will truly be missed by all who had the pleasure to know him.