William Gerald Hancock

On July 4, 1949, while much of the nation was shooting fireworks in celebration of their independence, William and Mary Hancock were giving birth to their only son, William Gerald Hancock, who lived life reflective of his birth date - big booms, bright lights and much celebration. 

Born in Kansas City, Missouri, William’s early life was rooted in the neighborhood called Round Top, where he lived with his grandmother and attended St. Matthew A.M.E. Zion Church, grounded in family, faith and community. Sharing names with his father, and two uncles, he was known as Gerald to the Round Top community. He was formally educated in both Catholic and public schools, often telling folks that he learned everything he needed to know in kindergarten. It would explain why he grew weary with formal education and left his Central High School classmates (class of ’67) before he walked the stage. 

At just 17 years old, William made two booming decisions –he enlisted in the United States Army and married the love of his life, Joyce Lamarr Robins. He was a proud Vietnam Veteran who served as part of the 101st Airborne Division. He had no problem telling people those two decisions literally saved his life. 

After serving his country, William poured his energy into building a bright future for his family. He was a go-getter and made his living selling everything from encyclopedias to carpet to ensure his family was cared for. He was a hard worker who maintained a carpet laying “side hustle” for more than 30 years easily becoming “everyone’s favorite carpet man.” He loved helping people get into the business, learn a new skill and make money. William lived by the motto: “measure twice, cut once, get your money and go live your life.” 

William indeed lived his life. A good life filled with challenges and triumphs, undergirded by love. For 57 years, he and his beloved wife Joyce raised their children, cared for grandchildren and committed to helping others along the way. They deeply enjoyed dancing together, spending time with family, and traveling to places with rich culture, good food, and plenty of shopping. 

Long before it became a social media trend, William was a “girl dad.” Being a great Daddy and PawPaw meant the world to him. He took pride in being a provider, a protector and a grounding presence in life’s heavy moments for his children and all who lovingly called him Dad, Pop, Pops, or Papa Bill. His simple words, “Don’t worry about that. We’ll figure it out” reminded them they were never alone in the big booms of life. 

William Gerald Hancock really was “that dude.” A resounding boom in the life of many. He will be remembered for his dapper dress, cool demeanor and confident walk that could change the atmosphere of any room. His playful spirit, dancing eyes and charismatic smile will give his loved ones’ light in the dark days. His spark may have quieted on this earth, but his light will never fizzle because of the impact he left in the world. 

Left to carry his light are his wife Joyce, his children Shannon and William, his grandchildren, Gabrielle (Ahmad) and Christopher, as well as, bonus daughters Shanel Hicks and Christina Huff, his brother Tyrone (Gail) Strong, and a host of family and friends. His birth parents, William and Mary, stepfather Herbert Strong, and two siblings, Andrea Hancock-Maple and Eric Hancock preceded him in death.