John Clark Tanner

Mr. John Clark Tanner, age 76 of Pearson, passed away on Tuesday, January 10, 2017, at his home in Pearson, Georgia, following an extended illness.  Mr. Tanner’s contributions to the community over the years and his friendly demeanor and spirit will be greatly missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing him.   A native of Atkinson County, Mr. Tanner was born October 8, 1940, to the late Henry C. and Lillie Mae McKinnon Tanner. He lived and worked in Pearson for many years and also lived in Douglas for a time.  He and his wife also had a mountain residence in beautiful Young Harris, Towns County, Georgia. Before retirement, he and his wife owned and operated Tanner Insurance Company in Pearson for many years.   A motorcycle enthusiast from early on, Clark owned and enjoyed riding many different motorcycles through the years.  His favorite model was the Honda Pacific Coast, of which he owned the first and last year models made by Honda. Clark was the former Post Commander of American Legion Post #173 in Pearson, Ga and was also known throughout the community for his coffee brewing and the ability to make and share the perfect cup with friends and family.    Mr. Tanner is survived by his loving wife, business partner, and companion of 37 years, Linda Moore Tanner, of Pearson; two step sons: Jody Fussell of Pearson and Kevin Fussell and wife, Annemarie, of Douglas; two brothers: Buddy Tanner and wife, Catherine, of Pearson, and Morris Tanner of Pearson; one granddaughter, Hanna O’Steen, of Douglas; God-child Jodee Molina, and her mother, Marissa Molina, of Pearson; and several nieces, nephews, and other relatives. Mr. Tanner was preceded in death by his daughter Jan Tanner and brother Cecil Tanner.   Funeral services for Mr. Tanner were held Saturday, January 14, 2017, at 3:00 P.M. at Relihan Funeral Home with Rev. George Carroll Paulk, Rev. Edward Mathews, Mr. Ken Vickers, and Mr. D.Q. Pittman officiating. Special musical selections included “Amazing Grace” rendered by Larry Latham; “In His Arms I’m Not Afraid” rendered by Glenda Lang; and an instrumental piece, “Wildwood Flower,” rendered by D.Q. Pittman with Larry Latham and Anna Grace Grantham accompanying on the guitar and violin–a special song that Mr. Tanner had in the days before his passing requested Mr. Pittman to play.   Serving as active pallbearers were: Joey Morris, Brandon Mullis, Kipp Pittman, Lee Pittman, James Gore, and Kenny Vining.   Relihan Funeral Home of Pearson, Georgia was in charge of the arrangements.   In light of Mr. Tanner’s affection for his beloved dog, Max, the family has asked that any voluntary memorial contributions be made to The Rescue Ranch, a non-profit animal protection organization, at P. O. Box 55527, McRae-Helena, GA 31055. Please include Mr. Tanner’s name on your donation. Any contributions are greatly appreciated by the family in honor of Mr. Tanner.