On August 26, 1930, in San Augustine Texas, God blessed the late Richard and Bertha (Holman) Tanner to be the proud parents of Mr. Richard L. Tanner, whom many dearly call Chubby. Richard attended San Augustine public schools before venturing to Dallas, TX as a young teenager to look for work. It was in Dallas, TX that he met the love of his life, Betty Jo Daniels whom he charmed and wed on June 13, 1953. To this union of 69 years, five children were born. He enjoyed raising his kids, hunting, fishing, traveling, and of course spending time with extended family no matter the time, place, or occasion. He also loved to cook and was known for being a master on the grill – in fact some would say he was the "Bar-B-Que King".

Richard retired from Red Ball Motor Freight after 30 years of service and went on to lead a very successful yard and landscaping business. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus participating in several sponsored events. The Man, The Myth, The Legend, loved by all, received his well-deserved crown in Heaven as he departed this life on August 16, 2022.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Bertha Tanner; his son Terry Keith Tanner; eight sisters, Razzie Jones, Genese Greer, Wilma Greer, Christine Williams-Crow, Velma Teagle, Lilly Hewitt, Jean Evelyn Miller, Martha Wade; two brothers, Roby Tanner, Leonard Tanner.

Richard leaves to cherish his memories: his loving and caring wife: Mrs. Betty Jo Tanner; four daughters: Jonquil Anyee Akhir, Jeanne Michelle Tanner-"Nookie", Karen Patrice Tanner, and Monica Helayne Tanner-Fobbs; seven grandchildren, Dwala Smith (Anthony), Odell Foster Jr. (Nikeyia), Brandon Tanner, Mustapha Akhir (LaKeisha), Melanie Callin, Jeremy Callin, Taylor McCoy and honorary granddaughter Sonya Jones; thirteen great-grandchildren; Richard Foster, DeAndre Foster, Alesia Smith, Kiana Foster, SaMya Akhir, Alaina Smith, Isaiah Akhir, Michael Foster, Braylon Tanner, Kensley Williams, Madison Tanner, Harleigh Rison, and Elijah Akhir; one sister, Mary Houston; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and friends who loved him dearly.