Louis Jackson Tanner Jr.

  Louis Jackson Tanner, Jr, affectionately known as “Jack” to all those that loved him, age 73, took his long awaited heavenly flight to be with Jesus on March 24, 2023 after a lengthy illness. Jack called Jesus his personal friend as he grew in his walk with the Lord. He expressed his readiness over getting to meet his Savior and being made whole. 

   Jack’s visitation will be from 12-2 with his celebration of life being held at 2 pm on Saturday April 1, 2023 at the chapel of Riser and Son of Columbia, La. Minister/niece Cherish Peppers officiating with nephews Griffin, Eli and Peyton Peppers assisting. Burial will take place at Old Bethel Cemetery in Clarks, La under the families direction.

   Jack was born January 3, 1950 to his parents Louis Jackson Tanner, Sr and Ottomese Fleming Tanner in Monroe, La. He graduated from Ouachita High school and received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from UNLV. Over his life he played ball from a very young age all the way through adulthood including earning an All American title several times. To list his sports accomplishments, teams and triumphs would take pages. 

   He served proudly in the US Air Force during the Vietnam War. Jack worked for the Las Vegas police force before returning home to work for the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Department. He then worked for Green Welding for 18 years as an operations manager and truck driver. From there, he worked for Saia Motor Freight for 27 years before retiring after hauling many a load and crossing many a mile. He loved to share his trucker stories and adventures. The true joy in his life was in 1981 when he met his Wanda, who would become his beloved wife and sweetheart for 42 years. He then became dad in every sense of the word to his chosen sons Mitch and Kevin. They worked and fought hard to build an amazing life together. Jack had a range of things he enjoyed. He played modified softball, golfed, was an avid outdoorsman and sports fan. He loved working on home and yard projects, motorcycles and the beach which he loved more because his baby loved it. He just enjoyed being wherever she was. 

  Jack Tanner was a deep and bold man. He never was swayed by opinions and stood firm in all he believed in. To hear him discuss his relationship with the Lord was always a blessing. After being diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s last year he fought bravely. This disease, which we want to bring awareness to, caused major changes in his life physically, mentally and emotionally. He was determined to battle in dignity and even when the days became hard he was appreciative of those that stood beside him as he fought. At this time we want to thank Harbor Hospice and staff, Hardtner Medical Center, Wayne Barksdale, and his “people” as he called them: Sonya Kennon, Dana Roshto, Cherish “Jimmy” Peppers and Lindsey “Baby” Goodman. So many more that assisted and helped in any way possible and we are forever grateful. Jack was preceded in death by his grandparents and father Louis Jackson Tanner, Sr. 

  Jack is survived by his “sweetheart” of 42 years Wanda Gay Alaniz Tanner of Olla, His sons Mitch Charrier of Pineville, La, Kevin Charrier (Ayano) of Okinawa, Japan, Jason Tanner (Kelsey) (Eli and Paisley) of Midland, Tx. His grandchildren Kouryu Aiden and Kaleena Charrier. His mother Ottomese Tanner of Monroe, La His brother Ronnie Tanner (Sara) of Bullard, Tx. Sister Lisa Johnston of Monroe, La. Father in law Gus Alaniz of Monroe, La. Many nieces, nephews, great nieces/nephews and a host of other extended family and friends. 

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Riser Funeral Home at PO BOX 57 COLUMBIA, LA 71418