Paul Alexander Hanna 1946-2023. The news of Paul Hanna’s recent death after a prolonged battle with cancer, was met with sadness across the local community and, in fact, across many continents. Paul Hanna was known by his family, a cross section of local and international musicians, many aspiring young music students, hotel guests and his East Street neighbors as an outgoing, upbeat person who would always encourage their aspirations and a willingness to assist. On International Jazz Day in 2022 Paul was recognized as a Bahamian musical legend. An honor well deserved after a career spanning over 5 decades. His musical skills were honed by association with professional Bahamian performers in the ’60’s. He also became acquainted and performed with a cross section of artists from North America, the Middle East and Japan. During those years he composed and recorded numerous songs. Paul’s talent was further enhanced by his wife and musical muse, Tanya. A singer and musician in her own right, together they’ve performed at first class hotels in Nassau and for local audiences. He and Tanya also involved themselves in neighborhood cleanups, fund raisers for disaster relief, concerts, personal enrichment and music appreciation for students and other humanitarian activities. His legacy lives on through his children Phelan Ferguson, Debbie Kelly, Devaldo Hanna, and Mustapha Ali_Bocas. Paul’s youngest son Troika who now resides in the United States, is following in his footsteps.
The family have planned a fitting memorial themed “A Celebration of Life” for their beloved patriarch on Saturday, 2 September 2023 at the Ashram Yoga Retreat on Paradise Island from 11 am-2pm. Top local musicians as well as US and Canadian artists will participate in the tribute.
Modest casual attire covered shoulders and sandals are requested. Additional notes for guests attending: Directional Signs will be posted for:
• Free parking at the Elizabeth Street Parking Lot • Free busing to the Ashram Yoga Retreat • Boat transportation from the north Elizabeth Street dock.
Live Stream will also be provided via Facebook
He is survived by his Wife: Tanya Hanna; Children: Debbie Kelly {George), Phelan Ferguson, Devaldo Hanna, Troika Hanna (Jaqueline Christine) and Mustapha Alibocas; Sisters: Ernestine Deveaux, Deceased – Flora Seymour, Philamese and Patricia; Brothers: Deceased – Harold McKinney, Howard Mackey, Edgar Hanna; Grandchildren: Jarred Kelly, Phelan Jr. Ferguson, Aria Massey-Lee Hanna, Tristan O’Neal Hanna, Tristan Tariq Alexander Hanna, Christopher Nalls, Kadae Hanna-Peoples, Aria Milan Brooks, Chloe Hanna, Calla Hanna, Tatyana Alibocas. Host of nieces and nephews, other friends and relatives.
