Fort Gibson National Cemetery

Fort Gibson, Muskogee County, OK

© Dighton-Moore Funeral Services
Submitted by: Sharon Adams

Thank You For Your Service!

Hansel Claude Day

October 4, 1964 ~ January 23, 2026

In Loving Memory Of

Staff Sergeant Hansel Claude Day

Loved beyond measure, missed beyond words

Staff Sergeant Hansel Claude Day, 61, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, passed away on January 23, 2026.

Hansel was born on October 4, 1964, in Hanau, Germany, to his mother, Therese Alt. At the age of four, he came to the United States, beginning a life marked by service, resilience, and deep devotion to family.

Hansel graduated from Nathan Hale High School in 1982 and entered the United States Army that same year. He completed Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training (AIT), beginning a career of service that he carried with pride.

In 2002, Hansel returned to active duty and completed three tours in support of U.S. operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. He served with courage, loyalty, and honor, earning the respect of those who served alongside him.

In 2015, Hansel reunited with his high school sweetheart, Laurie. Grateful for a second chance of love, they were married in 2016.

Hansel is survived by his loving wife, Laurie (Smotherman) Day; his mother, Therese Alt; his children Derek Rowen (Carley), Rachel Lucas (Ben), Carl Day, Cole Day, and Tyler Hoftender (Erin); his sister Gabrielle Glatt (Pascal); his father in law Douglas Smotherman Sr.; his brother in law Douglas Smotherman Jr. (Christie); and his grandchildren, who brought immense joy into his life.

He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Dale Elam; the mother of his children, Janie Day; and his mother in law, Tonya Smotherman.

A funeral service with military honors will be held at Dighton Moore Funeral Service on February 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Burial will follow at a later date at Fort Gibson National Cemetery.

"Your duty is done. Your watch has ended.

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