Rev. Dr. Yaw Baah Hanson

“When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.” — Isaiah 43:2 Paapa Yaw Baah Hanson and Maame Dinah Antwikonama Poku, both of blessed memory, were filled with joy on 30th November 1961. Not only did the day mark the birth of their last son, but it also became a memorable occasion of thanksgiving to God for His goodness and faithfulness. Naturally, he was named Yaw Baah. This remarkable event took place in the port city of Takoradi in Ghana’s Western Region. Yaw spent much of his early childhood in Jasikan, in the present-day Oti Region, where his father had been transferred to work with the Produce Buying Agency. He began his primary education at the Demonstration School in Jasikan, where he quickly became known for his calm disposition, intelligence, and academic excellence. Following another transfer of his father to Sunyani in the then Brong Ahafo Region, he continued his education at Sunyani Ridge Experimental, further distinguishing himself through diligence and discipline. In 1974, his academic brilliance earned him admission to the prestigious Mfantsipim School in Cape Coast. Yaw became the fifth and final Hanson brother to attend the renowned institution, continuing an extraordinary family legacy that saw a Hanson on Kwabotwe Hill continuously from 1961 to 1981 — a remarkable tribute to the values instilled by their parents. During his seven years at Mfantsipim, Yaw combined academic excellence with vibrant social engagement and became one of the school’s most well-loved personalities. Affectionately known by many as “Joe Mahat,” he left a lasting impression on classmates and friends alike. In 1982, Yaw entered the University of Ghana to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics. His outstanding academic performance earned him an appointment as a Teaching Assistant in the department after graduation. He later moved to the United States in 1988 to pursue graduate studies in Economics at the University of Delaware, where he obtained a Master of Science degree. He subsequently earned a Ph.D. in Econometrics and Political Economy from the University of Texas at Dallas, specializing in advanced economic modelling and quantitative analysis. Alongside his academic pursuits, Yaw built a distinguished career as an economist, risk management executive, and financial services consultant, with over two decades of leadership experience. He held senior roles at major institutions including Fannie Mae, Olympia West Lending, Accenture, First Niagara Bank (now KeyBank), Analytic Focus, NTT Data Services, and HCL America. Widely respected for his sharp intellect and strategic leadership, Yaw helped develop innovative risk management systems, forecasting models, and compliance frameworks that strengthened financial institutions and shaped industry practice. Among his notable achievements were the development of an Early Warning System for forecasting FHA loan defaults and the creation of executive risk reporting frameworks used by major banking institutions. Yet beyond his academic and professional accomplishments, Yaw’s greatest passion remained his faith and service to God. In 1986, he answered the call into ministry as an evangelist, teacher, and prayer warrior, serving faithfully in various ministries in Ghana. Later in the United States, Yaw continued ministerial work in Florida, Texas, and eventually the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. In 1998 he married Michellé (Chellé), his beloved wife and ministry partner. In November 2001, the Lord called them to establish the House of Prayer Ministry, through which they touched many lives with prayer, teaching the Word, worship, and ministry. Yaw was ordained as a minister of the gospel in 2003 and continued his ministry to the body of Christ. Together they shared a deep commitment to Christian service and were blessed with a daughter, Michelléna Grace Hope, born in 2011. Yaw’s greatest joy was being a Girl Dad to Hope. In the years before his beloved mother’s passing, Yaw devoted time to visiting and caring for her with love and dedication. He also maintained warm and close relationships with all his siblings, deeply valuing the bond of family throughout his life. Yaw was naturally reserved, yet deeply thoughtful and engaging in conversation. He possessed a quiet strength, a warm sense of humor, and a remarkable ability to inspire those around him through wisdom, faith, and kindness. The family was profoundly shaken when he was admitted to hospital in Virginia and then diagnosed with an illness. Through it all, prayers were offered ceaselessly for healing and restoration. However, in His infinite wisdom, the sovereign Lord called His faithful servant home to eternal rest. Rev. Dr. Yaw Baah Hanson leaves behind a legacy of faith, scholarship, and devoted service to God and humanity. He is survived by his loving wife Michellé; daughter, Hope; brothers, Osei (Grace), Kwasi (Grace Dede), Anthony (Barbara), and George (Dawn); sisters Grace, Elizabeth, and Emelia; and numerous nieces and nephews. Yaw Baah, may you continue to enjoy the Lord’s eternal rest. Yaw, Da Yie!!! Ye Bekai Wo Daa.

Rev. Dr. Yaw Baah Hanson

November 30, 1961 - May 9, 2026