Lacy W. Hanson

1953

Lacy William "Buz" Hanson

May 30, 1933 - Mar 22, 2026

Lacy William Hanson, affectionately known as "Buz" to all who loved him, passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on Sunday, March 22, 2026.

Born on May 30, 1933, in Lewisburg, W.Va., to Tracy Cecil Hanson and Grace Ellen Potter Hanson, Buz lived a life defined by integrity, generosity, faith, and an abiding love for family, friends, and community.

Buz grew up on Teaberry Hill in Lewisburg, where the strong values of hard work, faith, and kindness were instilled in him at an early age. He graduated from Lewisburg High School and Greenbrier Military School, then went on to attend West Virginia University, earning a degree in accounting. A lifelong and proud Mountaineer, he carried his WVU spirit wherever he went. Buz served his country honorably in the United States Army, spending much of his service in Japan.

Following his military service, Buz moved to Roanoke, Va., where he began a distinguished 35-year career as a Certified Public Accountant. He started at Andrews Burkett & Co., which later became part of Deloitte, where Buz ultimately retired as Managing Partner. His career allowed him to travel extensively, something he truly enjoyed, and he was widely respected and admired by colleagues and clients alike for his leadership, fairness, and warmth.

On New Year's Eve in 1965, Buz married Jeannine Bowman of Huntington, West Virginia, beginning a love story that spanned 60 joyful years. Together, they built a home filled with laughter, hospitality, and enduring devotion. Buz loved hosting parties and gatherings, welcoming everyone with open arms, good conversation, and a genuine interest in others. He was known to enjoy a martini and a glass of red wine.

Some of the family's most treasured memories were made on their many trips to Myrtle Beach and the Potomac River, spots that held a special place in Buz's heart. In later years, he found great contentment and happiness spending time at Smith Mountain Lake.

Buz's family was the center of his life. He was a devoted husband, a loving father to his two sons, Ted Hanson (Linda) of Richmond, Va., and Chris Hanson (Mary) of Roanoke, Va., and a father-figure to his beloved niece, Jeannie Johnson (Charles) of Roanoke.

He took great pride in his five grandchildren, Grace Hanson of Boston, Mass., Will Hanson of Alexandria, Va., Kacie Hanson of Alexandria, Va., Kellie Hanson of Charlottesville, Va., and Laine Burchinal of Roanoke, Va., each of whom brought him immense joy.

Buz served as a Deacon in his church and lived his beliefs through service and kindness. He treasured time spent golfing and playing cards with friends at Hunting Hills Country Club and was known for his easy smile and engaging spirit. He also shared a close and loving bond with his brother, Stanley Hanson (Syd) of Kenova, W.Va., and deeply cherished their family.

Buz was preceded in death by his parents and sisters-in-law, Jeannette Bowman Clary (Buck) and Betty Bowman Ellis (Bob).

He is survived by his wife, Jeannine; his sons and their families; his nieces and nephews; grandchildren; his brother, Stan (Syd); their four children (nephew, Boyd Hanson, deceased); and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

Buz's life was rich, full, and well lived. He will be remembered for his generous heart, joyful hospitality, steady guidance, and the many lives he touched along his journey.

No services will be held at this time; the family will hold a Celebration of Life on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Hunting Hills Country Club from 2 to 5 p.m. Condolences may be expressed to his family by visiting www.Oakeys.com.

Oakey's Funeral Service - South Chapel

Roanoke, VA (540) 989-3131