John (Jack) Louis Hahn passed away at his home on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at the age of 87. He was with his beloved wife, Joyce, to whom he was devotedly married for 63 years. He is also survived by his two sons Tracy (Susan) Hahn and Terry (Olga) Hahn, daughter Tammy (Billy) Rosson, brother James (Pat) Hahn, and grandchildren Zac Hahn, Jesse Hahn, Taylor Hahn, Wesly Hahn, Grayson Hahn, Aaron Rosson, and Avery Rosson. Also surviving are beloved nieces and nephews.
Jack served his country with honor, spending four years in the Air Force in Alaska and four years in the Marine Corps Reserves. He was a man of many talents: an accomplished draftsman, woodworker, welder, and craftsman. His skills extended to sales and efficiency management, where he made significant contributions at international companies.
However, it was his 16-year career as a commercial pilot that he was most passionate about. He traveled to more than 120 countries, flying countless trips around the world from his base in Miami. He transported dignitaries, delivered hunger relief supplies, carried essential materials for the Alaskan pipeline, and trained C-130 pilots in Uganda, among many other achievements.
In his early years, Jack was known as a bit of a rebel, leaving school after the ninth grade to work at a racetrack exercising racehorses and then working on inland waterway barges before joining the Air Force. His life took a transformative turn when his brother and sister-in-law shared the Gospel with him. Through his newfound faith in Christ, he embraced a new life. He became a beloved Sunday school teacher and deacon, often reflecting on his favorite hymn, “Trophy of Grace.” The lyrics resonated deeply with him: “If you had known me then, the way I was before, then you’d understand why I can’t hold back the tears. Now my life is so different, since I gave it to the Lord. And I want to give Him glory, while I’m here. I stand before you knowing that it’s only by His grace that I am just what I am today.”
His family would like to thank Larry Wright, director of senior adult ministry at First Baptist Church Columbia, and First Baptist Church staff and members for their care. The family also wishes to thank Dr. Ben Gardner; the Compassus Hospice nursing team, especially nurses Melanie, Dillon, and Pam; and Compassus volunteer Veterans Ray and Dan. His family is also grateful for the skilled and kind caregivers facilitated by Susan Bishop at Preferred Care at Home, including Sonya, Marilyn, Karen, and Cassandra; and the dedicated, caring team at Holland’s Pharmacy.
A celebration of life service will be held Mon., Sept. 2, at 2 p.m. with visitation from 1 to 2 p.m. at Heritage Funeral Home in Columbia, Tenn. Graveside service to follow.
Pallbearers will be Zac Hahn, Jesse Hahn, Wesly Hahn, Aaron Rosson, Seth Clark, and Brian Pridgen.
