Tom was born in Burlington, Vt., son of John T. Hanna and Dorothea Smith Hanna. He lived in Burlington and spent summers at Cedar Beach in Charlotte. He was very close to his grandparents, C. P. Smith Jr. and Doro F. Smith.
Tom is survived by his daughter Katherine Smith Hanna; his daughter Torrey Hanna Annas, her husband, Matt Annas, and their two daughters, Sloan and Hadley; his son, Captain Thomas B. Hanna, and his wife, Sarah Swan; and his sister, Charlotte Hanna of Calais, Vt. He was predeceased by his former wife, Marion Moncure.
Tom grew up skiing and sailing and was a fierce competitor at both. He attended Vermont Academy, where he skied all four events and made lifelong friends. He attended Johnson State College, then moved to Breckenridge, Colo., to be a ski racer. Injuries, and a desire to develop his custom home-building business, led to his move to Wrightsville Beach, N.C., where he grew his construction business and lived for more than 40 years. In recent years, he became a dedicated amateur photographer, specializing in wildlife and in UNCW athletic events. He was an avid runner, winning many races in his age group and joining his daughters in triathlons. Tom would say he was an outstanding golfer; others would disagree.
Tom was a valued member of the Wrightsville Beach community (and earned the title “Dockmaster” from his neighbors at Lookout Harbor and “King of the Sound” from the sailing club). He and his children were all active athletes, boaters and volunteers. He was very proud that all three of his children qualified as Wrightsville Beach lifeguards. Many of his friends were close for his entire North Carolina life. He was well loved, and many will miss him.
This article appears in Aug 6-12, 2025.