It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mr. Donald (Don) Hancock, at the age of 79. He left this earth on Saturday, April 4, 2026, while surrounded by his family that loves him dearly.

Don was born on April 11,1946 in Florence, SC. He was a son of the late Tracy and Frances Stokes Hancock.

In Don's younger years, he served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. It was while he was stationed in the Navy that he met his love, his Pam, his late wife of 56 years. After being married, Don and Pam lived their life in Effingham where they raised their 2 children, Donald and Tracy. Without a doubt Don had a great love for his family and yes, especially his grandchildren, the love he possessed for them was magical to watch, whether it was simple conversations, teaching them something or even trips to the Bass Pro Shop, Don also known as “Didi” was very proud of his gals.

Don was known for a strong work ethic and his love for staying busy. It was in 1976 that he began a journey of creating a business that became part of his known identity. As President of Pee Dee Scale Company, Don spent most of his days loving his career path. Showing up daily because he loved his profession and loved his work family just as much. His dedication to work was unwavering.

If you knew Don, he had 2 outfits, either he was wearing his Pee Dee Scale work attire or either wearing camouflage. Don not only loved work but also had an extreme passion for the outdoors, he loved hunting and tossing a hook. If it was August, you could bet, he was somewhere in or near a deer stand. He spent years heading out west to hunt large game. Don has many trophies, as his walls are proof.

Don was a kind soul who had a great sense of humor, enjoyed laughing and really loved a cup of black coffee. He leaves behind a family who loves him deeply and countless friends that will also miss him. A daughter that already misses him tremendously and who looks forward to their reunion.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Tracy (Keith) Fields; granddaughters, Sloane Fields and Stokes Fields; grandsons, Cody Hancock and Brandon Allen; sister, Nancy Batchelor; brothers, Walter Hancock and Paul Hancock; nieces, nephews and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his wife, Pam Hancock; son, Donald Hancock Jr.; sister, Betty Ratelle.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 noon on Friday, April 10, 2026, in the Layton-Anderson Funeral Home Chapel with burial to follow in Lebanon Cemetery, Effingham, SC. The family will receive friends from 11:00 am until noon on Friday at the funeral home.