Richard Clarence 'Dickie' Tanner

Richard “Dickie” Clarence Tanner was born on March 8, 1945 in Columbus, Ohio. Dickie grew up on Columbus’ East Side and graduated from East High School in 1964, where he was noted as one of the best basketball players in Central Ohio. Dickie retired from Syntaxis Youth Homes as a supervisor. He worked 12 years for the Ohio Public Defender Commission as a Lead Investigator and worked for the Women’s American Basketball Association as the Director of Operations. He also volunteered for Tennessee BBQ and Open Hands Ministries doing just what he loved to do “cooking.” Dickie loved sports. He was a devout Cincinnati Bengals Fan and Ohio State Buckeye Fan. He was so proud the day his grandson, Ron Tanner II, signed his letter of intent to play football for The Ohio State University. He leaves to cherish many memories; his wife, Cecilia Tanner; daughter, Vickie (Rick) Hunter; two sons, Ron (Kim) Tanner and Anthony Tanner; stepdaughter, Sheena West; seven grandchildren, Brandon Hunter, Britney Hunter, DayJuan Oswalt, RoKia Tanner, Diamond Tanner, Ron Tanner II and Ashira Tanner; six great-grandchildren; stepmother, Jackie Stewart; three sisters, Marcialene Slate, Doris Stewart, Stephanie Stewart; three brothers, Robert Stewart, Jr., Christopher (Angie) Stewart of Brandon, Florida, Vincent (Jacqueline) Stewart; as well as his many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Gladys Adell Henley, Richard C. Tanner; Robert L. Stewart, Sr. (paternal father); special great aunt, Gertrude Person-Smith (played a significant role in his life during his childhood); granddaughter, Elizabeth Tanner. Dickie was extremely proud of his children and grandchildren. He always enjoyed spending time with his family, extended family and friends. He had the type of smile that would light up a room. He loved people and never met a stranger. Dickie will be missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing him, but mostly by those who had the privilege of loving him.