Gerald Lee Tanksley

Gerald Lee Tanksley, a beloved father, grandfather, sibling, and friend, passed away on June 25, 2025, in his hometown of Augusta, Georgia, at the age of 65. Born on November 13, 1959, he was a proud graduate of T. W. Josey High School, where he first laid the foundation for a life filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories.

Gerald's spirit was as vibrant as his home city, and he carried the warmth of Augusta in his heart throughout his life. A dedicated member of the United States Army Airborne Unit, he served his country with honor and pride, demonstrating a commitment to service that would stay with him long after his military career. Upon returning home, he retired from Thompson Demolition Company, a testament to his hard work and perseverance.

He was a man who loved deeply, laughed freely, and lived fully. Family and friends were the center of his world, and he took great joy in nurturing those connections. His daughters, Latasha (David) Polite, Latricia (Quannda) Tanksley Pitts, and Jasmine Thompson, were a source of immense pride for him. He cherished being a grandfather to Corey Pitts, Jr., Tristan Pitts, Asa Pitts, Sierra Blackson, David Polite, Jr., and Aiden Polite, creating memories that will forever echo in their hearts.

Gerald is survived by his loving siblings, including Loretta (Willie) Tanksley Robinson, Verna Mae Conner, Gary Leroy Tanksley, Geraldine Phillips, Marvin Leroy Burton, Betty Jean Johnson, Fannie Mae (James) Cunningham, and his sister-in-love, Shelia Tanksley. Each of them shares in the profound love and admiration that surrounded Gerald throughout his life.

He is preceded in death by his father, Thomas Tanksley, Jr., and mother, Vannie Kelly Tanksley, whose loving guidance shaped the man he became. Also mourning his loss are two brothers, James Kelly and Thomas Tanksley III, who were part of his journey but left this world too soon.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Gerald's life during a visitation on Monday, July 7, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, followed by a funeral service on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM, both held at C.A. Reid Sr. Memorial Funeral Home in Augusta. He will be interred at Bottsford Spring Baptist Church in Waynesboro, Georgia, later that same day at 12:30 PM.

Gerald Lee Tanksley will be remembered for his kindness, his infectious laughter, and his unwavering love for his family and friends. His legacy will live on through the hearts of those who knew and loved him, forever inspired by the joy he brought into their lives.