James E. Hanna, Sr.

James E. Hanna Sr., 89, US Army retired, retired SC State Ports Authority Chief of Police and widower of the late Mary K. Hanna, entered into eternal rest Thursday, February 25, 2021. The relatives and friends of James E. Hanna, Sr. are invited attend his Visitation between 5:00 and 7:00 PM Monday, March 1, 2021 at the James A. McAlister Funeral Home,1620 Savannah Highway, Charleston. Graveside services on Tuesday will be private.

The son of Mabel and Lloyd Hanna, Jim was born in Lewisburg, WV and grew up with his 10 siblings in York Haven, Pennsylvania. He is survived by his sons James, Jr. and Dale Allan (Reba); his grandchildren: Michael Hanna, Kristina Hanna, Jeremy Galbraith (Felicia), Ashley Galbraith and Marissa Galbraith; two brothers, John, and Gene Hanna (Linda); and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his daughter Diane Lynn.

Jim is a veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Wars, during which he was awarded the Bronze Star, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge and the Army Commendation Medal. He retired in 1970 and began his second career with the South Carolina Ports Authority, retiring as Police Chief. He obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Pacific Western University.

During his life he enjoyed woodworking, electronics, and making shrimp cast nets in his spare time, but his primary focus has always been on his family and friends. A man of few words but caring actions, anyone that knew Jim could count on him to help in whatever way he was able. Although he may not have admitted it, he was also an animal lover...even the most aloof cat would come to him and nobody else.