Hansel Geoghagan

Jimmie Hansel Geoghagan, a man of unshakable strength and unwavering love, passed away at the age of 91 on March 30, 2025, walking peacefully into the arms of his Savior. Hansel was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend whose life was a testament to his kindness, tenacity, and enduring sense of humor.

Born on August 1, 1933, in New Harmony, Florida to Roy and Zella Daughtry Geoghagan, Hansel grew up raising sheep on his father’s farms in Black Creek and New Harmony. He graduated from Paxton High School in 1951 and began his first vocation joining the Navy in 1952, proudly serving his country for 4 years. After his military service, Hansel became a civil servant at Eglin Air Force Base, dedicating 30 years of service and finishing his career as a building inspector with the Civil Engineering Group.

On Dec 12, 1954, Hansel married the love of his life, Jean Thorn, at New Harmony Baptist Church. The couple was married for an incredible 70 years. They enjoyed sharing their life together and traveling across the US and Canada.

Hansel’s faith was a central tenant to his life. He served the Lord and, for many decades, was a dedicated member of New Harmony Baptist Church.

Hansel was an avid hunter and fisherman. He could often be found on the Choctawhatchee River fishing, in an oak hammock calling for turkeys, or on the edge of a deer field. Hansel had lots of luck catching and killing his game, but you never knew the exact location of his exploits due to the classified nature of this information. Being an exceptional cook of all he caught, he delighted in hosting fish fries for his family and friends. His outdoorsman heritage lives on in his sons and grandsons whom he taught to hunt and fish.

Hansel’s humor and storytelling were legendary-he could brighten even the darkest days with one of his many comical tales. More mornings than not, with a toothpick in his mouth and a cup of coffee in his hand, you could find him engaging in small talk at a local eatery. His infectious giggles and quick wit were a constant source of laughter to all who knew him. Hansel loved the lighter side of life, but he also knew how to help his community. He was known for lending a hand to his neighbors and sharing his garden vegetables, fish and venison.

Family was everything to Hansel. He had a soft spot for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren whose company always brought him joy. One of his greatest pastimes was watching his grandsons play basketball at his very own alma mater. In his latter days, he lived to put a smile on his great grandchildren’s faces by playing catch with them, singing them silly songs, and always giving them M & Ms.

Hansel was the kind of person who made everyone around him feel better just by being in his presence. His legacy will live on in the countless memories he leaves behind, the lessons he taught, the stories he told, and the love he gave.

Hansel is preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Zella Daughtry Geoghagan. His brother Buzz Geoghagan (Sonja) and son-in-law Kirk Zessin.

Hansel is survived by his loving wife, Jean, his sons, Dennis (Kay), Tim (Beth) and daughter, Cynthia Zessin. Grandchildren Rachel Taylor (Josh), Katie Joffe (Benjamin), Kelly Petrey (PJ), Drew Geoghagan (Kristina), Dan Geoghagan (Lauren), Dustin Geoghagan (Ashley), Blake Zessin (Maryllyn), and Chad Zessin. His brother Larry Geoghagan (Glenda Jo), and 13 great grandchildren.

He is also survived by an abundance of extended loved ones, including in-laws and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Jimmie Hansel Geoghagan will be 12:00 P.M. Thursday, April 3, 2025, at New Harmony Baptist Church. A time of visitation will be held from 10:00 – 12:00. Burial will be in the New Harmony Baptist Cemetery. McDonald Family Funeral Home oversees arrangements with Pastors Todd Camp and David Amason officiating.

Pallbearers will be Dan Geoghagan, Dustin Geoghagan, Blake Zessin, Chad Zessin, Randy Geoghagan and Jeff Geoghagan,

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to New Harmony Baptist Church, 2281 County Highway 2A, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32433.