Sammy Tanner

Samuella "Sammy" Tanner was born in Dallas, Texas on August 18, 1961 and passed from this life on November 29, 2023 at the age of 62.

Sammy graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in Dallas, Texas in 1980 where she ran track, enjoyed wood shop, and made many friends for life.

Being naturally athletic, Sammy enjoyed biking, skiing, hiking, and riding horses. She loved nature and being outdoors. She had a keen eye and was proficient with handguns and would enjoy going to the gun range and shoot targets with her brother James.

Sammy was employed by the City of Dallas and retired from Dallas Fire and Rescue as a Senior Storekeeper in 2019 after 34 years of service. She was well-liked by the firemen she worked with as she was known to go the extra mile in preparing their gear or in resolving other issues. She was even voted "Employee of the Year" one year and received an award at the annual dinner. She considered the Fire Department as family.

Away from work, Sammy enjoyed spending time with her son, David. They loved seeing the latest movies and going to Sonic for burgers and sodas. They both attended Lakepointe Church in Rockwall, Texas where they enjoyed the fellowship and activities which included volunteering to help the under-priviledged. Sammy had a deep, abiding faith in God and instilled this in David, her pride and joy. She was so proud of his faith, his service in the U.S. Army, and his marriage to his sweetheart, Elena, in June 2023. This made her very happy.

Sammy was passionate about loving and helping both animals and people in need. Many lost stray dogs or cats were rescued and carried to safety from a busy road or neighborhood she was driving through. All her pets were rescues. This was a life-long passion. She cared for others more than herself. This was her legacy of love.

Sammy is preceded in death by her mom and dad, Linda and Robert Renfro; brother, James Renfro; and Memaw, Mildred Tutt.

She is survived by her son, David Tanner and wife Elena; brother, Robert Renfro and wife Anita; sisters, Rhonda Clinton and husband John, Bobbi Church and husband Robert, Cindy Byard and husband Ronnie, and Kathy Fisher and husband Harry; and many nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you honor Sammy by making a donation to your local humane society or homeless shelter.