Elbert William Hannah

Passed 07/17/2026

With hearts filled with gratitude for a life well lived, we celebrate the life and legacy of Mr. Elbert William Hannah, who peacefully entered eternal rest on Friday, July 17, 2026, at the age of 79, surrounded by the love of his family at his home.

Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at Saint Phillip A.M.E. Church, 240 Candler Road SE, Atlanta, Georgia 30317. Viewing at 10:00 A.M. Service time at 11:00 A.M.

Final Resting Place in Hillandale Memorial Gardens, 6201 Hillandale Drive, Lithonia, Georgia. 30317.

Elbert was born on May 27, 1947, in Louisville, Georgia, to the late Odell Hannah, Sr. and Eunice Smith Hannah. He was the fourth of five children and was raised in a loving family where faith, hard work, and respect for others were deeply valued.

Elbert received his education through the Jefferson County Public School System, graduating from Jefferson County High School in 1965. He continued his education at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1971. He valued education and believed in the importance of perseverance, discipline, and lifelong learning.

At an early age, Elbert accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at Sand Valley African Methodist Episcopal Church in Louisville, Georgia. His faith remained the cornerstone of his life, guiding him with humility, compassion, and quiet strength.

In 1974, Elbert united in holy matrimony with the love of his life, Gwen Williams. Their marriage was built on unwavering love, faith, and commitment. Together they shared 52 wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with two sons, Elbert Bernard Hannah and William Durand Hannah, who became the pride and joy of his life.

Elbert was employed by Mizell Brothers in Atlanta, Georgia, where he faithfully served for 15 years. In 1987, he retired due to disability. Although his career was shortened, he faced life's challenges with dignity, resilience, and unwavering determination. Those who knew Elbert admired his gentle spirit, quiet demeanor, and steadfast devotion to his family.

More than any accomplishment, Elbert cherished his roles as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, caring brother, uncle, and faithful friend. He found his greatest joy in spending time with his family, encouraging his children, and watching his grandchildren grow. His wisdom, kindness, and unconditional love created a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.

He leaves to celebrate his life and cherish his memory of his devoted wife, Gwen Hannah; his loving sons, Bernard Hannah (Kym) and Durand Hannah (Tara); and his beloved grandchildren, Kenard Hannah, DJ Hannah, Trent Hannah, Jasaiah Hannah, and Kynnedi Hannah.

He is also survived by his brothers, Lee Edward Hannah (Tonye) and Odell Hannah, Jr. (Alfreda); his sisters, Barbara Hubbard (William) and Verdell Thompson (the late Thomas Thompson); his sisters-in-law, Margaret Warren and Betty Williams Kirby (Kirby); brother-in-law, Jake Williams Jr. (Elizabeth); his cherished aunt, Doretha Yates (Abram); his uncle, Arthur Smith; and a host of devoted nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who were blessed by his love, kindness, and enduring presence.

Although our hearts are saddened by his passing, we rejoice in knowing that Elbert has received his heavenly reward and now rests peacefully in the presence of his Lord and Savior. His life was a testament to faith, perseverance, humility, and unconditional love. His legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply.

Lovingly remembered, forever cherished, and deeply missed, Elbert's memory will remain in our hearts always.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant... Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."
Matthew 25:23