Joanne “Cece” Cecilia Baur Hanson, 74 completed her beautiful and faithful earthly life on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at her residence in Anderson, South Carolina.
She was born October 27, 1949, in Giessen, Germany and was the third child of the late Col. John “Bill” William Gephart Sr. and Kathryn Bevis Gephart.
With Cece’s father being career Army, she lived in Germany, Aberdeen Maryland, and France for the first years of her life. Arriving back in the states in the summer of 1958. She attended schools abroad the United States, eventually graduating at Annandale High School, 1968, in Virginia. She went on to attend Chipola Junior College in Marianna, FL.
Cece had a passion for children and founded Cece’s Cherub Station Pre-School Center in Marianna. She then moved to Chipley and became owner/operator of Little Folks Pre-School on Main Street in Chipley, FL. Seeing the need for Christian Education in the community, as Little Folks grew, Cece founded Chipley Christian Academy (C.C.A.) in 1986. C.C.A. would go on to offer every grade level. Ceceserved in such roles at C.C.A. as Principal, Administrator, and would often dual role as a teacher. Cece stayed in the field of Christian Schools for many years. Teaching and serving at Tallavana Christian School in Havana, Dayspring Christian Academy in Marianna, and Washington County Christian School (W.C.C.S.) in Chipley. She retired from W.C.C.S. where she served as Guidance Counselor and Teacher. Upon retirement Cece went on to serve on the W.C.C.S. Board.
One of the most important things Cece leaves is a legacy of faith in Jesus Christ. She used the gifts, skills, and knowledge God gave her to serve the many people who had the privilege to know her. Cece was a student and lover of the Bible and loved to share with others what she learned. Using her gifts she led in many roles of the church. Her devotion to God and her dedication to His ministry helped shape the lives of many.
Through the years, she was a friend and confidant who shared her wisdom to encourage and embolden those around her. Cece could always be counted on to intercede in prayer for any and all. She prayed for her family every day. She loved to have fun whether it was with her family or her friends. Her smile and laugh were contagious. Cecewas a beloved wife, a tender and loving mother, and grandmother whose life of rare and beautiful service more than fulfilled its wide opportunities.
Preceding her in death were her parents; her brother, John “Johnny” William Gephart Jr.; and late husband, Charles Douglas Baur.
She is survived by her husband of 6 years, John Hanson of Anderson, SC, Sons; Larry Pooser (Cindy) of Chipley, Daniel McNeill (Crystal) of Panama City, Slade McNeill (Tammy) of Marianna, Daughters; Julia Bennett (Jason) of Chipley, Kaylor Collins (Ryan) of Chipley, Sisters; Beverly Cox (Mike) of Dothan, AL, Deborah Benton of Tallahassee; grandchildren; Rocky Roberts (Shirley), KrystiMiles (Kevin), Chase Walker, Haylee Rivenbark, BrayleeWebb (Matt), Tristan and Laramie Pooser, Eli, Nehemiah, and Emily McNeill, Lexi Cumbie (Gabe), Blane Bennett (Sandralee), Hayden and Avett Bennett, Austin, Luke, and Ryley Collins; 15 great grandchildren with one on the way;3 great-great grandchildren; and her nieces and nephews.
A celebration of her life will be held Saturday, May 4, 10:00 AM (CDT) at Courts of Praise Church, 1720 Clayton Road, Chipley, FL, 32428 with Pastor Ted Thornton officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation Friday May 3, 2024, from 6-8 PM at Courts of Praise Church. There will be a private interment at Hillcrest Cemetery in Quincy. Obert Funeral Home of Chipley, Florida directing. Also, a memorial service will be held Friday, June 14, at Zion United Methodist Church in Anderson, SC where Cece attended the last 6 years.