Danny "Dan" Gene Hesse

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Danny (Dan) Gene Hesse

October 3, 1951- March 12, 2025

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Danny (Dan) Gene Hesse, a devoted family man, proud American, and steadfast servant of his Savior, country, and community. Dan passed away peacefully on March 12, 2025, at the age of 73, following a brief illness at Tampa General Hospital in Florida.

Born on October 3, 1951, to Calvin Arthur and Jessie (Stahley) Hesse, Dan was preceded in death by his loving parents.  Raised in Weiner, AR, he carried the values instilled in him by his family-faith, hard work, and generosity-throughout his life. His devout devotion to his loved ones and his community was evident in all that he did.

Dan is survived by his beloved wife, Charolette, with whom he shared 49 wonderful years of marriage. They cherished each day as a gift, never taking the time they had for granted. Hand in hand, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and a profound appreciation for the world around them. Whether gathered around the dinner table with family, fishing for crappie on Lake Okeechobee, or pursuing walleye on Greers Ferry Lake, they found joy in simple moments like enjoying God’s sunsets from their boat with their dog, Bailey.

As a devoted father and “GrandDan,” he leaves behind his daughter, Kara (Hesse) Money, and her husband, Jeff Money, of Bartlett, TN; his son, Barry, and his wife, Krissi, of Jonesboro, AR, who always called him the best father-in-law ever. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Austin Money (Bartlett, TN), Parker Money (Greenville, SC), and Hannah (Hesse) McGhee and her husband, Lukas McGhee (Jonesboro, AR). Dan was especially blessed to have two great-grandchildren, Heidi Marie McGhee and Henley Grace McGhee, who brought him endless joy and served as a beautiful reminder of life’s sweetest gifts. He treasured every moment spent with them.

Dan is also survived by his brothers: James (Jim) Hesse and wife Linda; and Philip (Phil) Hesse and wife Patricia, with whom he shared a lifelong bond. Some of their fondest memories were made hunting together, particularly at Timber Ridge, where their families would gather to appreciate the beauty of the rolling hills, streams, and each other’s company. Dan’s nieces, nephews, and friends knew they were deeply cherished by him, and they will miss him profoundly.

Dan honorably served in the National Guard for 20 years, retiring as a Staff Sergeant (E6). He was a proud Republican, deeply committed to traditional conservative values. His unwavering commitment to his country was matched only by his passion for financial stewardship and his dedication to helping others. As a Hall of Fame and Legend member of Thrivent Financial, Dan spent over three decades guiding families toward financial peace, ensuring that future generations would enjoy lasting security. For him, this was never just a career- it was a true calling. He took immense joy in navigating the complexities of the market, understanding its connection to current events, and making a tangible difference in the lives of those he served. Dan retired from Thrivent Financial in 2023, leaving behind a powerful legacy of service and integrity for generations to come.

Faith was the cornerstone of everything Dan did. He was a faithful member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Memphis, TN. He was deeply committed to mission work through St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital as well as Trinity Hope, where he supported feeding 265 Christian schools in Haiti through both service and generous donations. Dan’s love for faith, family, and fellowship was apparent in every aspect of his life.

Dan found joy in life’s simple pleasures—peaceful boat rides, leading Sunday services by the lake, tending to his garden, hunting, reading in his deer stand, and, of course, preparing delicious meals for those he loved. He took great pride in cooking ribs, fried fish, and hot wings, always with the belief that meals were meant to be shared with loved ones, preferably with a Busch Light in hand.

A visitation will be held on March 21st from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Emerson Funeral Home in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Funeral services will take place on March 22nd at 2:00 PM, at Emerson Memorial Chapel, officiated by Terry Tieman, followed by burial at Waldenburg/Zion Lutheran Cemetery. The service will be live streamed for those unable to attend.

Pallbearers will include Courtney Miles, Justin Miles, Shane Knoernschild, Griffin Knoernschild, Tim Thompson, and Daniel Hundley. Honorary pallbearers are Donald Greeno, Lynn Diggs, Johnny Dale, and members of the National Guard, Charlie Battery 5th, 206th Field Artillery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Trinity Hope Feeding Program or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital—both of which were causes that held great significance to Dan.

Dan’s unwavering dedication to his family, his legacy of service, and his unconditional love for others reflected the depth of his devotion to his Savior. His faith was the foundation of everything he did. We find comfort and peace knowing he is in Heaven with our Lord and Savior.