John Andrew Tanner, aged 84, passed away peacefully at home on April 21, 2025, after an extended illness. Born on May 22, 1940, to Andrew Jackson Tanner and Frances McDonald Tanner, John lived a life marked by deep affection for his family and a distinguished career in agriculture and community service.
John graduated from Culver Military Academy in Indiana and furthered his education at Emory University and the University of Georgia. He dedicated his professional life to farming and the timber industry. His commitment to agriculture was recognized nationally when he was appointed to the National Advisory Committee on Safety in Agriculture in Washington, D.C., and locally through his service on the Georgia Tobacco Community Development Board, appointed by Governor Roy Barnes. His contributions to soil and water conservation earned him the title of Man of the Year by the Altamaha Soil and Water Conservation District in 1978, and he was a proud recipient of the President’s Award from the Tobacco Growers Association of Georgia in 2005.
John was a lifelong storyteller, cherished for his ability to weave tales of family history and connect with people through his narratives. His love for his family was profound, and he often expressed it through stories that have become treasured memories for his family and friends.
He was an avid Georgia Bulldog fan, a season ticket holder for 60 years, and a member of the Athens Chapter of The Gridiron Society. He attended games regularly as long as he was able and cheered for the Dawgs.
He was a devout member of St. Andrews Anglican Church in Douglas, Georgia, where he served as a Vestry member and Senior Warden. His faith and dedication to his church community were integral parts of his life.
John leaves behind his beloved wife of 62 years, Cleary Tanner, and their children: Drew (Regan) Tanner of Douglas, Georgia; Hamp (Michelle) Tanner of Miami Shores, Florida; and Tiffany (Rob) Walton of Atlanta, Georgia. He was a proud grandfather to Andrew (Tiffany), Michael (Mikki), Hollis, Collier, Adalyn, Annie, Hampton, Lucianna, Julian John, Tanner, Frances, Charlie, and great-grandfather to Blake Marie, Addie Jane, and Evelyn Elise. He was preceded in death by his daughter Elizabeth Cleary Tanner, parents, Andrew Jackson Tanner and Frances McDonald Tanner, and his sister, Jerry Tanner Walker.
Visitation will be Thursday, April 24, 2025 from 6 PM-8 PM at Sims Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 11 AM at St. Andrews Anglican Church, followed by interment at Douglas City Cemetery. Active pallbearers will include Andrew Tanner, Michael Tanner, Hollis Tanner, Hampton Tanner, Charlie Walton, and Collier Guess, Honorary pallbearers are Don Brooks, Evan Brown, Melvin Davis, Ben Evans, Ralph Evans, David Lott, Brian McNeill, Julian Meeks, Scott Moore, Ray Ricketson, Harry Smith, Mallory Smith, Andy Tanner, Phill Tanner, and Danny Paulk.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Andrews Anglican Church in Douglas, GA , honoring John’s memory and his enduring spirit of community and faith.