James "Jay" Emmett Brady Hancock

James “Jay” Emmett Brady Hancock, Jr. passed away unexpectedly on December 13, 2024, in Pensacola, Florida. Born on August 15, 1970 to James Buster and Doris Hancock in Fort Gaines, Georgia, Jay's warmth and boundless spirit were apparent from a young age. He spent his formative years in Dothan and was a proud graduate of Dothan High School. His passion for justice and service led him to pursue and obtain a degree in Criminal Justice from Faulkner University.

For the last two decades, Jay had called Pensacola his home, where he became a well-known figure in the community. His selflessness was evident through his profound empathy and actions to support the homeless, often going to great lengths to assist those in need. Jay truly lived by the principle of treating others as he wished to be treated, frequently giving the shirt off his back to anyone who required it.

Jay's personality was a beacon of joy and humor. He had the gift of gab and could engage in conversation with just about anyone, making friends wherever he went. His ability to debate was unmatched, and he had a knack for discussing a wide range of topics with wit and intelligence. However, it was his joking nature that endeared him to many, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. Jay found joy in the simple pleasures of life such as a good cup of coffee and had a dream of converting his VW van into a coffee truck and being able to share his coffee with others. Jay’s love of VW’s went beyond the van, as he was a lifelong VW enthusiast as well.

Jay loved to travel and made several trips to Israel, showing his love for the Jewish people and God by volunteering more even while abroad.

Above all, the words that best describe Jay are selfless, comical and passionate. His legacy is one of laughter, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others. Jay's absence will be deeply felt by the community he so lovingly served and by all who had the good fortune to cross paths with him.

Survivors include his loving wife of 25 years, Angela Hancock, his daughter and son-in-law, Hannah Hancock and Kyle Harter, his daughter, Annaliese Hancock, and his son, Samuel Hancock; his mother, Doris Hancock; his brother, Patrick Hancock and his wife, Heather; nieces and nephews, Chandler Miller, Drew Hancock, William Parker Hancock, Lexi Hancock, Makenna Yeboah, and Ayden Yeboah. Jay was preceded in death by his father, James Buster Hancock and by his father-in-law, Walter Chandler.

We invite you to join us in celebrating the life of James (Jay) Hancock, offering two opportunities to pay your respects. We understand the challenges of traveling to both Pensacola and Abbeville, and we welcome everyone to attend either or both services. Your support and prayers mean the world to us as we navigate this journey together. Please keep Angela, Hannah, Samuel, Annalise, and our mom, Doris, in your thoughts and prayers. A graveside service will be held at 1:30 pm on Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at Judson Baptist Church Cemetery, County Road 93, Abbeville, AL 36310. Following the service, refreshments will be served in the Judson Fellowship Hall. All are welcome to stay and share memories. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 4 pm on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at the Brit Ahm Synagogue, 6700 Spanish Trail, Pensacola, FL 32504. Refreshments will be served in the Fellowship Hall following those services.

In lieu of flowers, we also welcome contributions to honor Jay’s love for his VW Bus. This cherished vehicle was a significant part of his life, and we hope to restore it in his memory to serve a meaningful purpose. Donations made through this site will help support the "VW Bus Fund." Please include “VW Bus Fund” in the notes section to ensure your contribution is directed accordingly. While this site is primarily set up for meal support, it offers an easy way to give in Jay’s honor without needing to set up a separate platform.

If you prefer to give through another avenue, you can make donations in Jay’s memory to Syna Brit Ahm Messianic Synagogue at https://shalompensacola.com/gives please specify that your gift is in lieu of flowers.

As we bid farewell to Jay, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and joy. His memory will continue to inspire acts of kindness and bring smiles to the faces of those who recall his stories and jokes. James Emmett Hancock's spirit will live on in the many lives he touched, and he will be missed dearly by all.