Jill M. Hannah Retires
by Ray Kline, Editor of THGI Newsletter, Director of Marketing and Public Relations
Jill M. Hannah has retired as the Managing Director of The Hancock Group, Inc., and I wanted to take a moment to pay tribute to this remarkable lady. I have been privileged to work with Jill for 27 years and have come to know her as one of the most loyal, efficient, trustworthy, honest, sincere, hard-working, courteous, friendly, and committed workers I have ever met.
Jill's work ethic is unparalleled. She has missed very few days of work since she started as Allan Hancock's assistant almost 50 years ago. Her workday often began at 7:15 a.m. and ended at 6:30 p.m. or later. Jill has worked tirelessly, going above and beyond the call of duty, and has never complained or shown any signs of exhaustion.
But Jill's commitment to her work is only one aspect of her remarkable character. As an active part of her community and church, she has devoted countless hours volunteering for various social and community activities. She is an outstanding individual who always avoids attention but deserves much recognition for all she does.
Jill was very active with Precious Life, a ministry for unwed mothers-to-be. She devoted time and energy to this very worthwhile organization. Jill served for 24 years as Executive Secretary for the Altoona Area Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors. At the end of her service, the organization presented a check to Precious Life in her honor. Precious Life used the proceeds to renovate the dining room at their home in Hollidaysburg.
Jill is widowed and has one grown daughter. She maintains an immaculate home and does all her own work inside and out. Despite her busy schedule, Jill has been the organist at her church every Wednesday evening and Sunday, both in the morning and evening, for the past 57+ years. She has also played piano/organ at Valley View for the elderly residents' Church Service, helping to wheel the residents in and out of the meeting room.
Jill's kindness extends beyond her work and volunteer activities. For many years, she checked in on her blind neighbor, running errands and doing whatever else needed to get done. She also cared for a family friend in her late 90s, doing her shopping, weekly housecleaning, preparing meals, and taking her to the doctor when needed. Jill rearranged things in her home to make it more accessible and for this dear lady to move about, helping her maintain her pride and independence.
Jill's generosity and kindness have touched the lives of many individuals. She lives selflessly without any desire for recognition or praise from others. She touches every person she encounters with her kindness and goodness. We love her dearly and miss her since she has retired!
