About
Rae Tanner Obituary
September 28, 1951 – February 7, 2014
Raleigh
Rae Jeanne Tanner passed away after a two-year battle with cancer. She was born in Franklin, Pennsylvania to Ray E. Tanner, father and Betty C. Tanner, mother. Rae attended George Mason High School in Falls Church, Virginia. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Lebanon Valley College in Annville, Pennsylvania where she was senior class president. She received her Masters degree from University of Kansas. Rae relocated to Raleigh North Carolina to work as a Senior Medical Writer with PPD.
Rae's passion was training and showing her dogs in various sports for many years. She competed on a national level with her dogs in agility, earning several championships and making numerous friends during her travels. In addition, Rae was a popular and much sought after AKC and UKC agility judge. She was a pioneer in making her sport successful.
Rae was preceded in death by her father, Ray E. Tanner.
Rae is survived by her true love, Gene Fisher, her mother, Betty C. Tanner, her sisters Janice Gavin and Jill Tanner, her brother Peter Tanner, brother-in-law Jeff Gavin, sister- in-law, Claudia Tanner; nieces, Jo Marie McCullin, Jennifer Gavin and Alexandra Tanner; nephews, Jesse Tanner, John Gavin and Austin Tanner; stepdaughter, Stephanie Wright and her husband Kevin, and grandchildren Connor Wright and Sarah Policastro.
Rae looked forward to being received in Heaven by her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. One of her greatest visions of Heaven was to be sitting atop a beautiful grassy knoll and looking down to see her beloved dogs who've passed - Cricket, Mickey, Sadie, Robin, Nugget, Zak, and Mr. Jet running up the hill, tails wagging and barking her arrival.
There will be a private ceremony and a celebration of life at a later date.
The World lost a sweet human being today, Heaven gained an Angel!
A service of Bright Funeral Home & Cremation Center.(919-556-5811)
www.brightfunerals.com
Cheryl Cieslinski
February 4, 2024
Think about you often. Miss you.
Connie Jankowski
February 3, 2024
The Midwest gained a wonderful friend when you moved our way....you are missed
Shelly Weeks
February 10, 2022
Still think of you often. Miss you.
Kathy Halteman Holohan
February 9, 2022
Rae, you were one of the sincerest, kindest people I have known. Save a spot on that hill for me, Kathy
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Cheryl C
February 9, 2022
Thinking about you often.
Jill Tanner
February 8, 2022
I miss you
Cheryl Cieslinski
February 5, 2021
Still think of you
Jill
February 4, 2021
I miss my sister so much...not a day goes by that I don't stop and think I need to call her. I love you and miss you Rae!
Shelly Weeks
February 3, 2021
Still think about Rae often. Still missing her as I'm sure her family is as well.
February 3, 2020
The world is definitely less without Rae J. Her enthusiasm, honesty, competitive spirit and kindness are truly missed.
Betty Sauls
February 9, 2018
Dear Tanner Family, OMG! I was so shocked and saddened to read about Rae passing. I heard about a dog show in Indy and thought about Rae and wondered if she would be attending. I'm not very active on social media but decided to look for Rae on facebook using her name with Agility. There she was, I recognized her face and her smile. It was her obituary. I am so sad. I had no idea. I worked for her in late 1990's at Abbott Labs Research and Development in Waukegan, Il. I worked as a temp employee but it was the first job I ever loved and Rae had a lot to do with that. She was a great boss and I learned so much from her about what a leader should be. She was a patient, kind, helpful, supportive, very smart boss and really nice lady. She would stop whatever she was doing just so she could give you her full attention and listen to you. Our small office group enjoyed long lunches together and other fun activities after hours and weekends. I wasn't involved in the dog training but enjoyed her stories. I did, however, enjoy her interest in collecting theme sweaters and vests and started my own collection. It was fun to see which sweater/outfit each of us would wear each day at work and Rae would give me tips on best deals and places to get great sweaters. Fun times. I remember her battle with cancer then. She was the embodiment of strength then and faced it head on. I had nothing but admiration for Rae. I never forgot her and thought of her often. I had since moved to Texas and then to Indiana and we lost touch as people do. I don't know what kind of cancer she had this time but I'm sure she fought hard and with dignity. I am the same age now as she was at the time of her death. I too have cancer now (NHL) as of 2013 and have my own battle to fight. I will always remember the positive vibes Rae sent out to the universe during the short time I knew her, the valuable lessons I learned from her and the good memories. To the Tanner family...I am so sorry for your loss. Rae was taken much too young. Rae... Thank you so much for the life lessons and wonderful memories.
Sincerely,
Betty Sauls
Indianapolis, IN
November 17, 2015
Still missing you
Cindy
April 20, 2015
I just heard about Rae's passing and I was profoundly saddened by the news. I knew Rae as an agility judge and for sharing her knowledge with others about dog agility. She was such a sweet, gentle person and she's is so missed...
harold ulmer
October 3, 2014
i was in rae's graduation class at lebanon valley and in a college publication, just yesterday, read of her passing. i was saddened by the news - i didn't know her well but was always impressed with her beautiful smile, her sweet laugh and the fact that she was always willing to return a hello when passing each other on campus. i am sure she will be greatly missed. i believe that our loved ones are gathered around campfires in the heavens and at night those campfires are what we see as stars. i hope you can find rae's star as you look at the night skies.
kathy halteman holohan
September 22, 2014
I was so sorry to hear of Rae's passing. I read it in the LVC alumni news. I'm even more sorry for her suffering but rejoicing for the "Rae J" angel in heaven. Rae was my big sister when I pledged the Clio soroity at LVC. While I had not seen her in very many years, she was certainly a loving and accepting friend and a loved sister.
February 26, 2014
Summers at Huntington Dam...some of my fondest childhood memories. No responsibilities, just swimmin' in that not so warm water, diggin' freshwater mussels out of the mud for fun then checkin' our legs for leeches, fishin' beneath the old dam, shiverin' while we licked giant ice cream cones on Grammy's steps in the warm sun...
Rae was there many of those summers. She was 5 or 6 years older than I, yet always allowed me to feel we were on equal footing whether discussing a fossil I had found or how the fish were bitin'. Rae was a warm fuzzy in my childhood, teaching by example kindness, sincerity, and respect , to a skinny 8 y/o kid. I'm not sure she appreciated what a positive impact she had on me. I pray she is now at peace, resting in the arms of Jesus, knowing the comfort of His unending Love...Bil Holmes, Lewistown, MT.
Me and my best friends
February 25, 2014
Heres my mom with me!
February 25, 2014
We are family!
February 25, 2014
Cindy Sides
February 21, 2014
Many years ago we were part of a loud crowd. In the summer we would descend on Grammy's house along Huntington Creek in PA...all of us...a pack of cousins that included Rae, Jan, Jill, and Pete. Years after those summers ended, I ran into Rae at a dog show in Allentown, PA. We laughed about the cousins that caused a ruckus no matter where we went, marveled over Grammy's unending good humor, and recounted several stories about our time at the creek. Today, in my mind's eye, I can still see Rae on a grand fossil expedition, cruising along Huntington Creek's edge... Miss you, Cuz.
Carol Wall
February 19, 2014
My memories of Rae date back many years when we would look forward to spending time with our sophisticated "city" cousins from Virginia. Gramma's house would be abuzz with activity -- games, cookies fresh from the oven, a treat from the store. Years may pass, but those childhood memories stand strong. RIP, Rae.
pat fallon
February 19, 2014
Heaven has another angel. I met Rae and Cricket at a Yorkie specialty in Maryland and she was so kind and helped me to fix errors that I was making.
Debbie Bax
February 19, 2014
A Very Special Friend has left this world, Dear Rae I will always treasure the time we spent together at the 2002 Roving Yorkie Speciality and how much I enjoyed our friendship and sending the little stuffed squirrel to you for Sadie, You will be Greatly missed my Friend RIP and enjoy seeing your furry friends, give my Chance a hug from me
Debby Funk
February 18, 2014
I'm very sorry to hear about Rae's passing. She was the first Yorkie handler to become an AKC agility judge. Because of her, I had the courage to become the second. I did have the honor of showing my Yorkies under her and we had a great time discussing the breed and agility.
Pam Shelby
February 18, 2014
I was so sorry to hear of Rae's passing. She was a wonderful lady and I am so happy that I got to meet her at our Yorkie Specialties. My heart goes out to her family at this sad time.
Jane Derr
February 18, 2014
The agility world has lost an awesome friend. Rae was the first judge, for my first show ever. Was so helpful and having a Yorkie sure helped. We didn't see each other often but we shared special things when we did cross paths and I am so sorry that she didn't win the battle. Rae has won many other things in her life and she will be missed by me and many other Yorkie and agility friends.
I saw Rae and Sadie win their MACH in Wisconsin many years ago and before I even knew what a MACH was. Now that I know what it is I can only dream. I hope she will say Hi to Dillon and Daisy for me.
My sympathy to Jill and her family.
Jane Derr, Dexter and DanSir
February 17, 2014
Dear Tanner Family,
I was very saddened to hear of Rae's passing. It is a poetic but bitter fact of life that people's lives cross and then circumstances change and they drift apart. But one of the highlights of my teen years was spending a week at your house. Do any of you remember my visit? We went to the pool, hung out with your friends, ate bologna sandwiches and pop tarts, and headed home when the street light came on. It was great fun! Memories that I have always held close to my heart. Thank you Rae for being such a fun person and sharing a little of that fun with me. My condolences to the rest of the family covered with many happy memories and peace.
Love to All,
Becky Knorr
Sean Hughes
February 17, 2014
Rae was the best kind of person that anyone could ever hope to know. Being her next door neighbor was a bonus although brief.Rae Tanner , you will forever be a "Rae of sunshine to me" . This is why I called you sunshine, I don't know if you knew that.
Tom Stewart
February 17, 2014
While Rae J. and I went our separate ways so many years ago, she has always maintained a special place in my heart. We shared so many things so long ago. I always knew she was happiest with her dogs. I'm sure Jenny was the first to give her a kiss.
Shelly Weeks
February 13, 2014
Rae was such a wonderful person. She was such an inspiration to me in many aspects of my life. She will be greatly missed by many. Godspeed Rae.
janice gavin
February 13, 2014
Well sister Rae I have so many memories of us as kids and things we did as a family. I always admired your ability to be successful in whatever you did even your part time jobs at Zayres. You were a hard act to follow in school most teachers couldn't believe we were sisters. I was glad that you met Gene and your life was complete. Say hi to dad and at some point we meet again. Love you jan
Rae and Rock
Pete Tanner
February 12, 2014
Pete Tanner
February 12, 2014
Jill Tanner
February 12, 2014
Losing my big sister is the hardest thing that I've ever had to do, but I'm glad that she's with our dad and Jesus and all her pets that have passed. I miss you Rae.....
Laura Kincaid
February 12, 2014
I met Rae over 20 years ago when I moved to Illinois. We trained and showed together in agility and obedience. She was a great friend and will be truly missed.
February 11, 2014
My sincere sympathy to the family. Always remember Almighty God is close to those crushed in spirit and broken at heart. May he provide you with the strength needed during this difficult time of your life.
Vicky Evans
February 11, 2014
So very sorry for your loss Gene, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I think she is on that grassy hill and all her past dogs are running to meet her...I enjoyed meeting her..
Kim Harrison
February 11, 2014
Prayers of love and comfort to Gene, Stephanie and Fisher & Tanner families. We hold you in our hearts.
Theresa Jones
February 11, 2014
Rae gave me the most beautiful gift ever, my border collie Ellie Mae. I can never thank her enough!
Tracie Franke
February 10, 2014
To Rae's family..... thank you for sharing such a wonderful person with all of us in dogs. I have a few pictures of Rae over the last 20 years that I'm willing to share. So sorry for your loss. I am honored to have known her.
Scott Tanner
February 10, 2014
May God bless and give peace to the friends and family of Rae. I have many fond memories of her when I was a kid. One memory is when her and Janie took Jill, Pete, me and my sister to my first theatre movie, Bed knobs and Broom Sticks. God speed to you Rae you definitely have earned the peace and love of heaven.
Connie Jankowski
February 10, 2014
Rae will be missed....
Judy Bleeker
February 10, 2014
I will miss Rae more than anyone I've lost so far in my life. Her constant calm and ability to share, listen and provide advice were a gift to me and helped contribute to the person I am today. I will think of her often and find comfort in knowing she is with her dad and pets at the Rainbow Bridge.
February 10, 2014
I always loved running Miss Rae's agility courses&she was always willing to talk about what might have gone better"if"..I will always think of her from McCormick Pl as she Judged there when I was running my first 2 labs.She was a great Lady.
Michelle R
Ken & Denise (Tanner) Harper
February 10, 2014
Aunt Betty, Jan, Jill, Pete - so very sorry for your loss. Rae Jeanne was such a beautiful person inside and out. Praying for you and your families and all those who have been touched by her life and love. She is greatly missed!
Stephanie Lenyear
February 10, 2014
I was greatly inspired by Rae's honesty and strength. She met every challenge with determination and the mindset that she had already conquered it.
Rae also embodied the saying, "it's not what you say but how you say it" because she was able to say anything with finesse.
I will continue to miss her presence at PPD.
I pray that God's loving embrace will forever comfort you.
Michele Hoffman
February 10, 2014
What a reunion Rae is having now that she is there to stand at the other side of the Rainbow Bridge to welcome her beloved pets! Peace to you, Rae, your life lives on in our hearts.
Katherine Daniel
February 10, 2014
I'm so sorry to hear of Rae's passing. I enjoyed working with her at PPD. Not only was she an excellent medical writer, she was an invaluable team member who could always be counted on to go the extra mile. As a friend and fellow cancer patient, Rae and I found comfort and encouragement in our support for each other. She will be dearly missed.
February 10, 2014
I am so sorry to hear of Rae's passing. She was such a kind person with an incredible heart. I always remember her with a smile on her face. Linda Czuba
February 10, 2014
Rae was one of my first agility instructors. You will be missed by everyone in the agility community
Mary Lynn
Kim Newton
February 10, 2014
Rae touched so many people with her kindness and compassion, and her sense of humor. Her passion and joy for life encouraged us all to make the most of every moment we are given. I will miss her very much. Sending so much love and healing to you all.
Patti Yuswak
February 9, 2014
I was shocked and saddened to hear this news. Rae was an incredible person, exceptional trainer, and amazing handler. We will all miss her here at WAG.
Mary D
February 9, 2014
The dog world has lost a treasured member. I will cherish my many memories of her. Rest in well deserved peace my friend. Kiss Sadie and Jet for me.
Pat Wallace
February 9, 2014
My condolences to her family. Rae was a lovely person and an excellent dog trainer.
Pat Wallace, Maui and Surf
Uncle Chic & Aunt Cathy Tanner
February 9, 2014
Gene, Betty, Jan, Jill & Pete so sorry for your loss. We know that she is no longer in pain or suffering. Our thoughts are with you. All our love to you and your families
Joyce and Ken Wright
February 9, 2014
We are so saddened by the loss of Rae, we loved her and know she truly will be missed by all. She was a wonderful lady.
Vicky Rodgers
February 9, 2014
Oh I am so sorry to hear this about Rae. I so enjoyed seeing her and her dogs at the shows. Heaven certainly did gain an angel and I'm sure she's having a wonderful reunion with her beloved dogs.
February 9, 2014
From the earliest days of agility, Rae was a delight, fun to be around and wonderful trainer and handler. She always had a smile and kind words no mater how rough the day. May she be reunited at the Rainbow bridge With her pet and all who loved her.
Cheryl C
February 9, 2014
I am so sorry to hear of this. Rae you were wonderful with Flirt and I and I thank you all the time for helping us become a better team. God speed my friend.
February 9, 2014
Very saddened to hear of Rae's passing. I knew her from WAG in Illinois and will always remember what a kind person she was.
Mauricio Britva
February 9, 2014
Sorry for your loss, great competitor and judge. Very sad. Out thoughts with you and family.
Sharon Tanner Peterson
February 9, 2014
Aunt Betty, Jan, Jill, and Pete so sorry for your loss. I feel bad I haven't kept in touch with all of you. Rae is no longer suffering and that should be great comfort to all of you. God bless.
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