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Ralph Tanner Obituary
Ralph was born December 10, 1926 in Jefferson County, Alabama the son of Claude Melvis and Alma Louise (Camp) Tanner.
He was an active member of his community, serving in many different capacities including the Kansas Independent College Fund, The Board of Higher Education with the United Methodist Church, Douglas County Visiting Nurses Association Board, and the Baldwin State Bank Board.
He was a lifelong educator and was proud to have been President at his alma mater, Birmingham-Southern College, as well as Baker University. He served two terms in the Kansas House of Representatives, chairing the Education Committee while there. Tanner was an avid gardener, loved listening to classical music, watching Alabama football, playing golf, and meeting with his Wednesday morning men's coffee group. He was a friend and respected mentor to many.
He married Judith Berry Tanner August 27, 1960 in Birmingham, Alabama. She survives of the home.
Other survivors include his son, Clay Tanner, Memphis, TN; daughter Susanne Smith (Mark), Wichita, KS, Caroline Tanner, Baldwin City, KS; four grandchildren, Mark Smith, Jr. (Taylor), Goldsboro, NC; Emily Anno (Darren) Lincoln, NE; Olivia Smith, Wichita, KS; Hannah Smith, Tulsa. OK; one great-granddaughter, Sarah Jane Smith. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Claudine Phillips.
Memorials may be made in his name to Baldwin First United Methodist Church or to a scholarship established in his name at Baker University.
Online condolences may be sent to www.warrenmcelwain.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ralph Tanner
Frank Lowrey
June 22, 2017
Ralph was a mentor and good friend to me during my time at BSC (1958-1962). I was in the first history class that he taught at BSC, and since I was a history major several others as well. He took a personal interest in me and we spent much time together outside the classroom. I am so grateful that I saw him a couple of years ago and was able to express my gratitude and admiration. My sincerest condolences to the family.
Martin Woosley
December 6, 2016
Dr. Tanner was President of Birmingham-Southern College during a difficult time. He was a gracious leader and always made time to speak with this student. I traveled to his home in Dora, Alabama once and he and Mrs. Tanner were gracious hosts. Peace to all of you in his family.
November 30, 2016
To the family:
May you find peace from the God of all comfort at this difficult time and gain strength to cope from that peace of God that surpasses all understanding.
Becky Hall
November 30, 2016
I am so sorry to hear this. Such a special, kind man. He will be missed.
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Don Flory
November 28, 2016
I had great respect for Ralph. My prayers are with you Judith, and your family at this time of grieving.
Rita Lindsey
November 28, 2016
To Ralph's family,
Ralph was a lovely, interesting, and kind man with a sense of humor! I enjoyed knowing him, and will miss him. He spoke of Mrs. Tanner often, and of his children and grandchildren, and all their successes. He was the epitome of "gentleman," always well dressed, with wonderful manners.
Sincerely,
Rita Lindsey, RN
marion roberts
November 26, 2016
A great and gracious gentleman. He served Baker University with dignity and honor. Ralph and Judith provided stability, love and elegance to Baker, Baldwin City and for all who knew them. Our support flows to Judith and the family.
Marion and Marcia Roberts
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Warren-McElwain Mortuary & Cremation Services - Lawrence Chapel120 W 13th St, Lawrence, KS 66044
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