Larry Wayne Tankersley

Larry Wayne Tankersley Sr., 71, of Rhea County, Tennessee, passed away on December 5, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on September 6, 1954, Larry was a proud lifelong resident of Rhea County, where he built a life rooted in hard work, loyalty, and devotion to those he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Ressie (Rose) Tankersley; brothers Butch Tankersley, Deloy Tankersley, Carroll Tankersley, and Charles Thomas Tankersley; and sisters Linda (Tankersley) Burchard, Jean Hughes, Rose Marie Tankersley, and Glenda Faye Tankersley.

Larry leaves behind his beloved wife, Janet Tankersley; his son, Larry (Lori) Tankersley Jr.; and his sister, Sheila Tankersley Steel. He is also survived by his stepdaughters, Darlene Vaughn, Tammy (Jerry) Minton, and Carrie Reed; his half-sister, Leila Simpson; his grandchildren, Brandon (Alicia) Tankersley, Ethan (Laura) Vaughn, Brandon (Cayla) Minton, Raven Tankersley, Amber (Ronnie) Casey, and Chelsey Minton; and his great-grandchildren, Elena Tankersley, Alivia Casey, Stella Casey, Amelia Casey, Wilder Casey, Oliver Minton, Lylah Vaughn, and Lily Vaughn; . He will also be fondly remembered by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Larry worked many years in construction and was known as a talented and reliable mechanic. He loved racing cars, working on engines, and cheering on his favorite NASCAR drivers. When he wasn't in the garage or watching the races, he enjoyed settling in with a good western-never tiring of the classics. Above all, his greatest joy in life was watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. Nothing made him prouder than being "Papaw" to his big, loving family.

Larry will be remembered for his big heart, steady hands, and the way he showed up for the people he loved. His legacy lives on in the stories shared, the lessons he taught, and the generations that follow.

The family will forever cherish his memory and the many moments that made him so deeply loved.