Pat Hancock Sr

There are some people whose presence fills a room long before they speak, whose laughter carries across a river, and whose generosity leaves a mark on everyone they meet. Joseph Patrick “Pat” Hancock Sr. was one of those rare souls.

Pat was born on December 1, 1950, in Frankfort, Kentucky, the youngest of eight children born to Charles and Dorothy Hancock. Growing up in a small house on Briar Cliff surrounded by a large and loving family shaped him into the man he would become—quick-witted, loyal, and endlessly devoted to family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Susan Slattery Hancock; his brothers Hartwell Hancock, C.M. “Hank” Hancock (Ann), George Hancock, and his twin brother Michael D. Hancock (Linda); and his sister, Sue Bell Winans (Johnny).

He is survived by his three children, Jennifer Hancock Tedesco (Billy), Joseph Patrick Hancock (Carita), and Jeffrey Frazier Hancock (Erika); his sisters, Liza West (Buzz), and Dottie Crocker (Danny); as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who cherished him.

Pat’s story truly began the day he met Susan Slattery. They were high school sweethearts just kids then, but everyone around them could see it: these two were meant to walk through life side by side. They married on February 13, 1971, and from that day forward, Pat and Susan were a matched set—partners in love, in business, and in every adventure life offered. When Susan passed in 2018, a piece of Pat went with her. Now, on March 17, 2026, they are reunited, ready for their eternal boat ride together, joined once again with his parents, siblings, and many dear friends who went before him.

Pat and Susan were immensely proud of their children, often joking that together they made a “full house”—a King, a Queen, and three Jacks. Jennifer, an accomplished attorney; Joe, a successful businessman; and Jeff, the Franklin County Clerk, were the pride of their lives.

The joy of Pat’s later years came from his grandchildren: Lauren Stiffen (Eddie), Katherine VanHoose, Charlie Hancock, Pauli Hancock, Ty Hancock, Houston Hancock, and Lindsy Tedesco; along with his great-grandchildren Xzavier, Ezekiel, Elijah, and Owen. Each one held a special place in his heart.

Pat was a true lover of life and family. His favorite titles included Dad, Papaw, Uncle, Brother, Cousin, Friend, Captain, and Owner of Whitehead and Hancock. He was blessed with countless friendships and believed deeply in judging a person not by the money in their account but by the way they treated others.

Everyone who knew Pat knew he was happiest on the water. As Captain of the Lil Rascal, he spent decades teaching young men and women how to respect the river, how to handle a boat, tie a knot, and most importantly to enjoy the ride. The Kentucky River wasn’t just a place he visited—it was part of who he was. His love of boating was a family event, raising each of his kids on the Kentucky River. Everyone was welcome on his boat, family, friends, or strangers; if you wanted to take a boat ride all you had to do was ask, he may even have shared some bourbon with you.

A man of faith, Pat was a devoted member of Good Shepherd Catholic Church. He served his community generously and without seeking recognition. His service included leadership roles in numerous philanthropic and civic organizations, including President of the Frankfort Jaycees, Crimestoppers, KAMC, and the Frankfort Chamber of Commerce. He believed deeply in helping others and giving back to the community he loved.

Pat joined Susan on March 17, 2026, surrounded by family during his transition.

A Catholic Burial Mass will be held on April 17,11am at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, followed by a Celebration of Life at Clark Funeral Home on Versailles Road. Pat’s family invites all who knew and loved him to join in honoring and celebrating the life of Joseph “Pat” Hancock.