John Ashley Hancock, age 91, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, at The McLoed Hospice House. Born on December 6, 1934, in Bishopville, South Carolina, he graduated from Ashwood High School and then served in the National Guard. John lived a life marked by curiosity and an unwavering passion for understanding how things worked.

As a mechanic, John was an “engineer without a degree”, known in his community for his remarkable ability to fix anything that came his way. His inquisitive nature often led him to disassemble objects just to learn their intricacies, and he took great pride in his ability to create solutions when parts were beyond repair. John's love for mechanics was matched only by his dedication to his family, whom he cherished deeply. Mr. Hancock also enjoyed traveling out west, exploring the landscapes that ignited his adventurous spirit.

John is survived by his beloved spouse of 73 years, Myrtle Ray Hancock, and his two daughters, Barbara “Barb” (Walt) Glenn of N. Myrtle Beach and Beth (Dean) Morgan of Columbia. He was a proud grandfather to Christopher (Allie) West, Alan (Carla) Morgan, and Brandy (Brad) Hemion.  Along with his great granddaughters Danika West and Brianna Hemion. 

In celebration of John's life, a Visitation will be held at Belk Funeral Home in Darlington on June 9, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. A Graveside Service will follow in Bishopville in Piedmont Cemetery at 3:00 PM.

John was preceded in death by parents Waddy Hancock and Mary Maxcy Hancock, a brother Elbert Laneau Hancock and an infant sister, Mary Elizabeth Hancock.

Memorials may be made to McLeod Hospice House, c/o McLeod Foundation, PO Box 100551, Florence SC 29501-0551 or www.mcleodfoundation.org