Harold Wayne Tanner

Harold “Wayne” Tanner passed away on February 27, 2025, at the age of 86. He was born July 12, 1938, in Forney, Texas, to John Bowman Tanner and Velma Ruth Lindsey Tanner. Wayne grew up in a large farming family with 3 brothers and 6 sisters. He graduated from Forney High School in 1956.

 Wayne loved his family fiercely and was known for his quick wit and sharp sense of humor. He never met a stranger and would give you the shirt off his back without a second thought. A lifelong salesman, he could sell just about anything—including, famously, a Bible to Elvis Presley. He earned a reputation for his charm, hard work, and ability to connect with anyone.

 Wayne had a deep love for boating and being on the water, whether it was fishing, cruising, or simply spending time by the lake with his family and friends. Some of his best memories were made on the water, laughing and sharing stories with those he loved.

 Wayne is survived by his loving wife, Laquita McQueen Tanner and their precious puppy Chachi; his sisters Melba “Jane” Wallace (his twin), Marsha “Gail” Scott (husband Ron), Ida “Carolyn” Millar; his daughters: Genene Miller (husband Ken), Rhonda Gorham (husband Keith), and Becky Beamon (husband Dyalan); stepchildren: Debbie McDonald, Greg Blanks, and Mitzi Bellew (husband Steve); grandchildren: Jennifer Clifton (husband Tony) and Stephanie Wilson, Caleb Wilson, Hailey Wilson, Dakota Blanks and Gavin Phillips as well as many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

 Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, first wife and the mother of his children, Mary Avenell “Nell” Webb Tanner; brothers, John Wendell Tanner, Thomas L. “Sam” Tanner, and David Lowell Tanner; and sisters, Bobby Jo Farmer, Debra Kaye Hooten, and Ruth Ann Houck.