Dr. Robert Howard Hanna, otherwise known as “Doc” and the first Black practitioner in West Chester, died on Jan. 27, writes Bill Rettew for The Daily Local News.

Born in Coatesville in 1928, Hanna is remembered by the community, friends, and family as a sarcastic, upbeat jokester who never refused to help a person in need.

He received an education at what became Lincoln University and later attended Howard University as a medical student. He worked at Memorial Hospital, the Embreeville State Hospital, and Chester County Hospital. At Chester County, Hanna was the first Black doctor while the only other African American employees on the staff were nurses.

“He played a vital role in the history of West Chester and the elimination of segregation and discrimination,” said friend Rev. Anderson Porter.

Family was the most important thing to Hanna, as he spent much time with his children, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. His son was inspired by him and became a physician as well. Hanna was involved with the NAACP, Greater Brandywine Branch of the American Red Cross, and Planned Parenthood of Chester County, among many other organizations. He was also a co-founder of the West Chester Area Day Care Center in 1968.

“He knew how the body works,” said West Chester Mayor Lillian DeBaptiste. “He was one of the last great general practitioners.”

Read more about the incredible life of Dr. Robert Howard Hanna at The Daily Local News.