On Sunday, May 19, 2019, Gerald Dean Hannaford age 81, left this world to join his wife and son in heaven. The family and friends he left behind will miss this amazing man but we know we will see him again.

A celebration of his life will take place Friday May 24, 2019 at Clinkingbeard Funeral Home in Gainesville. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m.

Gerald was born in Gainesville, MO June 22, 1937 to Basil and Norma Hannaford, the second of three sons. He went to school in Gainesville, MO until the family moved to Belton, MO. He graduated from Belton before enlisting in the Air Force.

He married Mary Ann Webber on May 4, 1957 in Denver, Colorado where he was stationed. They had two children, Richard and Sandra. Gerald retired after 21 years in the Air Force and moved back to Gainesville to work for the family farm.
Gerald was a humble man. He never discussed the many awards and accomplishments he earned while in the Air Force. He was proud to be a part of the Lockhead SR-71 "Blackbird", but his proudest achievement was his family. He taught us the simplest of things in life were typically the moments with the most joy. He extended his love of life on to others and was one of the most recognized Boy Scout Troop leaders during his time at Beale AFB in California. This love and appreciation were returned when over twenty or thirty years later Gerald's scouts would find him and thank him for all that he did for them to help them succeed.

Gerald is survived by his daughter, Sandra Nimmo; his daughter in law Nancy Hannaford; his grandkids Darren Johnson and wife Kim, Justin Hannaford and wife Christina, Kayla Meharg and Kaitlyn Nimmo and grandson -at-heart, Delyn Meharg; his eight great grand-children; his brother Norman Hannaford and wife Linda; many nieces and nephews and cousins and his aunt Flo Runion.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann, son Richard, his parents and brother, Don.

Burial will be at Brushy Knob Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville, MO.