William Cedric "Bill" Tanner Sr. | Eastern NC Now

    William Cedric "Bill" Tanner Sr., 77, of La Grange, received his Heavenly promotion on Wednesday, January 14, 2015.

    Bill was born January 13, 1938, in Nash County to the late James Raymond Tanner, Sr. and Mildred Price Tanner. Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elneita Eubanks Tanner. Bill proudly served his country in the United States Army. Following his discharge from the Army, Bill enlisted in the Army National Guard where he served with distinction for over twenty years retiring with the rank of Sergeant. He was a member of Neuse Baptist Church where he was an ordained deacon. Bill worked in construction as an administrative manager for a variety of companies during a career that spanned almost thirty years. Bill was quick with a joke and loved seeing others smile. He had a great love of animals and enjoyed good fellowship with the Kinston Singles Club. Most important to Bill was his family. His life set an example for his children and grandchildren that will lead them all their lives.

    A service of remembrance will be held Sunday, January 18, 2015 at 2 p.m. from Rouse Funeral Home. Interment with military honors will follow at Pinelawn Memorial Park.

    Bill is survived by three sons, Bill Tanner Jr. and wife, Cheryl of Hampton, VA, Ray Tanner of Seaford, VA, and Jon Tanner and wife, Ruth of Kinston; two daughters, Lynn Tanner Falls of Hampton, VA and Kim Walker and husband, Craig of Lisbon, OH; two step-sons, Archie H. Cox of Greenville and Raymond Keith Cox and wife, Terri of Kinston; two step-daughters, Edie Anderson and husband, Anthony of Longview, TX and Dede Bumgarner and husband, Tom of Clayton; brother, Fritz Tanner of Washington, NC; along with nineteen grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

    The family will receive friends Saturday from 5-7 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Memorials may be made to Neuse Baptist Church, 2909 West Vernon Avenue, Kinston, NC 28501. Arrangements are with Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.