Thomas Neely Tanner

Memoriam

Thomas Neely Tanner of Ralph, age 66, died June 4 at Tuscaloosa DCH. Graveside services will be Sunday, June 7, at 2:00 at Tuscaloosa Memorial Park with Pastor Steve Strickland officiating and Magnolia Chapel Funeral Home directing.

Mr. Tanner was preceded in death by his parents, James Ollie and Mazie Neely Tanner.

Survivors include his wife of 35 years, Cecie McCracken Tanner, his son Britton Neil Tanner, his daughter and son-in-law Megan and Michael Hartin, and his granddaughters Sidney Tanner and Eliza Jane Hartin. As well as his cousins, Susan Tanner, Kay Tanner Skelton, and Linda Tanner and his childhood best friend, Drayton Wear.

Tom, as he was known by his family and friends, was born June 19, 1948 in Birmingham, Alabama. Much of his childhood was spent in the Forest Lake community in Tuscaloosa. He graduated from Tuscaloosa High School and Marion Academy. For many years, he was involved in his family-owned business, Tanner Brothers Wholesale Produce, along with his father, uncles, and cousins. After his retirement, he continued to enjoy lifelong hobbies of boating, deep sea fishing, and beach trips. Alabama football was one of his passions, and he relished his daughter's accomplishments at the University. Tom was many things to many people. He even described himself as “doorman for the dog,” Jasper. He was “Papa T” to his twin granddaughters, the lights of his life. Tom was a natural raconteur and loved to entertain friends with recollections of his past exploits. His wonderful sense of humor made many a friend smile, a gift that will be truly missed. He loved his church family at Pleasant Grove United Methodist in Jena, as well as his friends in the Ralph community.

Though his family and friends will sorely miss him, we have comfort in knowing that Tom is regaling the angels in heaven as he awaits a happy reunion with us one day. His wish is that we not be sad, but that we will celebrate his life as one that was well-lived. The family suggests that, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church.