Harry Eugene Tanner died just two months after the death of his wife, Virginia Elizabeth “Betti” Tanner, from heart failure. He is survived by two children, Debbie Tanner Cathey and Scott Tanner. His eldest son, Todd Tanner, died in 2001. Born in 1942 to Dora Cole Tanner and Harry Elam Tanner (both deceased), he was raised in LaGrange, Georgia along with his five siblings Gertrude Tanner Andrews (deceased), Ann Tanner Ray (deceased), Patricia Tanner Parker (deceased), Robert “Bobby” Tanner (deceased) and David Tanner. Harry served in the United States Army from 1958 - 1968 and met his wife, Betti, while stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington. Being a Papa to his five grandchildren, Rory Thornton, Nicholette Tanner, Brianna Cathey, Eli North, and Sydney Tanner was the highlight of his life.
After retiring from the fiberglass industry in Texas, Harry spent the next 15 years perfecting his grilling and smoking techniques as well as mass producing salsas and Brunswick stew. Cooking and feeding people brought him great joy. He and Betti moved back to Georgia in their retirement to be closer to his nieces and nephews, the Lanier family in Acworth and other life long friends.
Visitation will be held on February 18, 2023 at the Higgins Funeral Home at Hunter Allen Myhand from 10:00 – 11:00 am. The memorial service will begin at 11:00 am at the funeral home.