Barbara Reed Tanner

Barbara Joyce Reed Tanner, 92, of Carrollton, Georgia, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior on October 12, 2025. Born on June 27, 1933, to Clarence and Rosa Lee Steed Reed of Hartwell, GA. Barbara lived a life marked by faith, family, and devoted service to others.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Tanner, Jr., with whom she shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and partnership. Together, they built a home full of joy, faith, and purpose-a legacy that continues through the family they lovingly raised. Barbara was preceded in death by her siblings, Mary Reed Knapp (Bill), Bill Reed (Dot), Don Reed (Fran) and one grandson James William Tanner.
Barbara is survived by her five devoted children: Lynn Tanner Riley (Scott) of Augusta, GA; Sally Tanner Macaulay (Hugh) of Kennesaw, GA; Johnny Tanner (Alison) of Carrollton, GA; Reed Tanner of Carrollton, GA; and Leesa Tanner Barber (Scott) of Dacula, GA. She was also a proud grandmother to thirteen cherished grandchildren: Jennifer Riley, Richard Riley, Katie Macaulay, Claire Macaulay Lubbers (Andrew Lubbers), Hugh Macaulay IV, John Tanner IV, Catherine Tanner, Molly Tanner, Reed Tanner Jr., Cole Tanner, Elizabeth Barber Stettler (Michael Stettler), Sydney Barber, and Caroline Barber. Barbara had one great grandchild, Ryan Turner Riley. Her family was her heart, and she delighted in nurturing, guiding, and celebrating each of them.
Barbara graduated from West Georgia College in 1952, where she was Homecoming Queen and Archery Champion. She continued her studies at the University of Georgia, graduating Summa Cum Laude, and was honored on the Pandora Beauty Court. She was Phi Delta Sweetheart while John served as Phi Delta President. Additionally, she was runner-up for Miss Pimento Queen and later crowned Mrs. Rome. Barbara was asked to be Honorary Chair of the Magnolia Ball in 2006.
A devoted philanthropist, Barbara became widely known in Carrollton for her charitable contributions and community service. A long-time supporter and volunteer at Tanner Health System, she played a key role in advancing healthcare initiatives locally. She served on the West Georgia Foundation Board, and in 2007, her generous gift helped establish the John and Barbara Tanner Cardiac Rehabilitation Center at Tanner Medical Center. She was a major donor to the University of West Georgia, Alice's House, and contributed to the Art Center. In 2017, she was honored with the Spirit of Giving Award by the Tanner Medical Foundation for her dedication to improving healthcare and helping those in need. Barbara's compassion extended internationally through mission trips to Bolivia, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Kenya, where she brought care and hope to remote communities.
Her life was rooted in faith as a devoted member of Carrollton First Methodist Church. She actively supported civic and charitable organizations, serving on boards for the West Georgia Foundation and in organizations like Lit Mu and the Red Hat Club. Barbara will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, faith, and ever-present smile. She had a rare gift for making everyone feel valued and loved, and her home was always a place of welcome and comfort. Her life reflected the values she cherished: faith, family, service, and love.
The family invites community members who have received cards from Barbara over the years to send them to Almon Funeral Home, where they will be compiled into a memorial book. The cards will be returned after the book is completed.
The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the caregivers at The Stewart House for the love and care shown to Ms. Barbara. Your kindness and compassion brought comfort not only to her but also to those who loved her. We are deeply grateful.
A celebration of Barbara's life will be held in Carrollton, GA. Visitation will be Thursday, October 16 from 5–7 PM at Almon Funeral Home, and the funeral service will be Friday October 17 at 11 AM at Carrollton First Methodist Church.
A private family interment will be held at Carroll Memory Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Operation Beautiful Feet, P.O. BOX 736, Carrollton, GA 30112 or Carrollton First Methodist Church, 206 Newnan Street, Carrollton, GA 30117.
Messages of condolences may be expressed to the family at www.almonfuneralhome.com
Almon Funeral Home of Carrollton has charge of arrangements.