David "Sage" Tanner

David Joe "Sage" Tanner, Jr., age 74, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 20, 2025, in Grove, Oklahoma. Born on March 31, 1950, in Bakersfield, California to David Sr. and Jonnie (Philpott) Tanner, Sage was known for his outgoing, friendly, and honest personality. He lived a life marked by service, humor, and dedication to his family and community.
Sage graduated from Bassett High School in La Puente, California, in 1969. He met the love of his life and soul mate, Debbie (Buls) in 9th grade. They married on April 7, 1969, and began their life of many adventures and activities together.
The couple moved to Grove in 1985 from Peters Creek, Alaska. Sage embarked on a career that included notable roles as a Sheriff Deputy in Delaware County, Oklahoma, a Marshal for the Cherokee Nation, as well as a truck driver for Simmons Poultry processing plant. He was also employed for a time with District #1 road department.
Sage was an active member of the Foundation Free Will Baptist Church in Grove, Oklahoma. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, providing him with strength and guidance.
Sage was honored to be past Squadron Leader and Commander for the Sons of the American Legion. Possessing many talents and interests, he was a remarkable bass guitar player and singer, a skilled woodworker, and an avid motorcycle rider. His love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for camping, riding his motorcycle and "jeeping". Sage was a dedicated Green Bay Packers fan and enjoyed rooting for them. His BBQ skills were an enjoyment to his many friends and family. As a great storyteller, he could bring laughter and entertainment to those around him. His Cherokee heritage was a source of pride and honor. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Sage is survived by his wife, Debbie; their children, Scott Tanner (Toni), of Carthage, Texas, Krista Wildermuth (Dave) and Sandra Martin (Todd), and both of Grove; siblings, John Tanner (Valda), Cody Tanner (Kim), Pahleah Jones, Matt Tanner (Cheryl), Shannah Adrian, and Shelley Stuber (Chad); sister-in-law, Karen Buls; grandchildren, Dalton Tanner (Hailey), Cody Wallace, Jason Wallace, Missy Wallace, Christina Millican, Stephen Millican, Devon Tanner (Samantha), Trenton Enochs, David Wildermuth, and Payton Martin; and 8 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Debra Marshall and Ethan Tanner; granddaughter, Paige Martin; and two great-grandchildren.
Services will be held at 11 am on Monday, January 27, 2025, at Foundation Free Will Baptist Church, 23800 US-59, Grove, OK 74344. Nichols-Stephens Funeral & Cremation Services in Grove, OK, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Contributions may be made to his wife, Debbie Tanner, in memory of Sage's at https://square.link/u/9dCV2l7c or