William Harrison Hannah, Sr.: Whiteville

1941 – 2025

     William Harrison Hannah, Sr. of Whiteville passed away Thursday, May 22, in his home surrounded by his family. He was 83.

     From his career to his family life, William Hannah had a servant’s heart. William was born Dec. 23, 1941 to Willie and Blanche Burgess Hannah of Pickens. After serving his country in the Army National Guard, he began a career in retail, finishing his career with the North Carolina Department of Correction.

     William, known as CC002, also served Columbus County as Assistant County Coroner for almost 24 years. He was a member of the Williams Township Fire Department, member 1328, for almost 24 years, including 7 years as Chief. He was also past President of Columbus County Fire and Rescue Association.

     Not long after relocating to Columbus County, William began a long and storied career with the Columbus County Agriculture Fair. From parking cars, mowing, constructing buildings to serving on the Fair Board, William Hannah has been a part of almost every facet of this fair. Always one to never seek recognition, William was the man behind the scenes making sure that this fair was going to be a success. We were blessed by his selfless service and volunteer spirit.

     After a lifetime of accomplishments, William would tell you after his faith, he is most proud of his family. He and his wife of 60 years, Rachel, are the parents to Chip Hannah and wife Joann. He was the proud grandfather to Whitney and Sammi Jo (Bradley) and great grandfather to Matthew, Kate, Cheston, Eastyn and Hayes. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially at family sporting events.

     He is also survived by three sisters, Mildred Brewer, Dottie Aultman, and Martha Hannah; and sister in-law Carol Hannah.

     In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Joe Frank Hannah and Ray Hannah.

     Visitation was planned from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 25, in the Inman Ward Funeral Home Chapel.

     Funeral services were planned for 3 p.m. Sunday, May 25, in the Inman Ward Funeral Home Chapel, burial following in the Mt. Sinai Baptist Church Cemetery.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Lower Cape Fear LifeCare, 206 Warrior Trail, Whiteville, NC 28472; or Williams Township Volunteer Fire Department, 1655 F M Cartret Road, Whiteville, NC 28472.

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