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Jean E. Tanner
August 13, 2019

Obituary

Jean E. Tanner met Jesus face-to-face on August 13, 2019 at the age of 97.

Born on March 6, 1922 in Pittsburgh, PA, Jean was the third of five children to Davis and Bertha Linhart. As a child, Jean was funny, creative, and showed a zeal for life. Her siblings (Velma Mae, James, William, and Robert) adored their sister, as she was known to organize neighborhood games that brought friends and family together. Hospitality was her gift from an early age.

Her winsome smile and beautiful heart for Jesus captivated the love of her life, Paul A. Tanner, at the age of 17. They were married and committed to a life of ministry partnership in the Church of God. Serving Jesus was their priority, and the Tanner’s moved when faith was required. Jean and Paul lived and loved together in Canada, Wisconsin, Michigan and then settled in Anderson, IN. For over fifty years, Jean poured herself into various ministry programs at their home church, Park Place Church of God. Her self-sacrificing, humble, honest nature lit up a room. Jean’s faith animated her life; those who knew her were inspired by her passion for global missions work and teaching children and youth about Jesus.

Jean was encouraging and prioritized the care of others before herself. Paul was always quick to highlight her strengths as a partner and lifted-up Jean as the mother of Jim (wife Maxine (Norton)Tanner, Margo (husband Joe Royer), and Patty Jean (deceased at birth). To her children, Jean was a mother who exuded strength when facing life’s big challenges. She was wise with her words, peaceful in her presence, and showed us all how creativity and generosity bring people together.

Make no mistake, Jean was a classy lady who knew how to find the perfect snappy outfit. She refused to take shortcuts when it came to caring for her family, community, and friends. Her six grandchildren: Matthew (Chris) Tanner of Carmel, Indiana; Ryan Tanner of Los Angeles, California; Nicholas (Bryanna) Tanner of North Aurora, Illinois; Natalie (Royer) Farmer (Adam); Hillary (Royer) Novak (Joel) and Joshua Royer. Their fourteen great grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren felt safe in her care because she would not be distracted from what mattered most to her, her family. Jean Tanner leaves a legacy. Her family commits to follow in her footsteps by serving others, loving consistently, and demonstrating selfless passion. Until the moment she was heaven-bound, Jean Tanner was concerned about others. This is a mighty strength she delivered to the world with a tender and patient touch.

Those who mourn the loss of Jean will gather on Saturday, August 17, 2019 at Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service with visitation from 11:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M. A service to celebrate her life will begin at 1:00 P.M. with Dr. David Lawson officiating. Graveside services will follow at East Maplewood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Park Place Church of God, 501 College Drive, Anderson, IN 46012.

Post online condolences at www.rozelle-johnson.com

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Rozelle Johnson Funeral Service
229 S. Rangeline Road
Anderson, IN 46012
765-643-7474