Louis McKinley (Mack) Tanner

Louis McKinley (Mack) Tanner, 82 , departed this life on July 25, 2024 in Lynchburg, VA. He was the faithful and devoted husband of Patricia Thaxton Tanner for almost 52 years, who survives him. Born October 29, 1941 he was the youngest child of William Thomas Tanner, Sr. and Lizzie Smith Tanner, both deceased. 

He was preceded in death by brothers, William Otis Tanner, Paul Tanner, Peter H.Tanner, Robert L. Tanner, William T. Tanner, Jr., and David L. Tanner and sisters, Eunice T. Bailey, Pauline Tanner, Catherine T. Younger, Christine T. Jordan, Rachel T. Dawson, Anna T. Coleman, Elizabeth T. Tucker. and Marie T. Hodge. 

He is survived by one brother, Lester W. Tanner of Vero Beach, FL and two sisters, Alice T. Bailey of Rustburg and Barbara T. Farmer, of Lynchburg, VA. He is also survived by a brother-in-law G.M. (Mac) Hodge, Jr. of Greenville, S.C. and a sister-in-law, Mary Frances Gibbons of LaGrange, NC. He is survived by an extended family of nieces and nephews, among them three special nieces who were like sisters to him, Faye B. Mathews, Shelby B. Overstreet, and Linda B. Elliott. In addition, he is survived by a very special “adopted” grandson, C. Stephen Jordan, Jr. of Lynchburg who has been his guardian and constant companion.

Louis grew up in the Gravel Ridge area of Campbell County, and in his earlier years he was a member of Diamond Hill Presbyterian Church in Gladys, VA where he was pianist and organist. He graduated as Salutatorian from Rustburg High School, earned a B. S. degree in Biology-Chemistry from Lynchburg College, a certification in Medical Technology from Centra Lynchburg General Hospital, and a M. S. degree in Clinical Pathology from the Medical College of Virginia. Louis’s career spanned 37 years as a Clinical Hematologist in the laboratory at Centra Lynchburg General Hospital, from where he retired. He was a member of various professional organizations related to his work.

During retirement, he enjoyed gardening, working in his yard, and feeding and watching all the wildlife on his property. He was an avid bird-watcher and fed the birds all year round. In addition, he enjoyed some do-it-yourself projects around his home. He spent a lot of his time taking care of four cats, all of which were “rescue” cats.

Louis was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Lynchburg, VA, and a former member of Forte Chamber Music board of directors.

At the request of the deceased, there will be no visitation or service. A private inurnment will take place at First Presbyterian Church Columbarium.

Memorial contributions may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 1215 VES Road, Lynchburg, VA 24503 or Lynchburg Humane Society, 1211 Old Graves Mill Road, Lynchburg, VA 24502.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.