Honorarium: Dr. William Brown Hanson (1935-2024)

The orthopedic community mourns the loss of Dr. William “Bill” Brown Hanson, a pioneering figure in our field. Dr. Hanson, who passed away on July 15, 2024, leaves behind a legacy of excellence in orthopedic surgery and unwavering commitment to patient care.

A founding partner of the Southern Bone and Joint Clinic (formerly Dothan Bone & Joint Clinic) in Dothan, Alabama, Dr. Hanson dedicated 46 years to advancing orthopedic medicine. His special interest in sports medicine led him to serve as the team physician for the Houston Academy Raiders from 1970 to 1985.

Dr. Hanson’s contributions extended beyond his practice. He was a longstanding member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons since 1970 and received the Distinguished Public Service Award from the Arthritis Foundation in 1977. His support for the Dothan Crippled Children’s Clinic in the 1960s and 70s demonstrated his commitment to accessible healthcare.

An advocate for medical education, Dr. Hanson was instrumental in shaping nursing programs at Wallace Community College, providing valuable input into curriculum content and competencies. His dedication to nurturing future healthcare professionals will continue to impact our field for generations to come.

We honor Dr. Hanson’s memory and express our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and the countless patients whose lives he touched throughout his illustrious career.