Celebration of Life for Rodney L. Tanner

Rodney L. Tanner, age 90, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 26, 1935, in Houston, Texas, to Walter and Julia Tanner, and remained a proud lifelong resident of the community he loved.

Rodney is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, Jo Ann Tanner; his children, David L. Tanner, Denise Tanner Ashworth and husband Joe, Dana Sasser and husband Jim, bonus daughter Karen O’Connor.  His grandchildren, Cole Ashworth and wife April, Timothy Sasser and wife Brittany, Kendra Cox and husband Roy; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Carter, Ava, Donovan, Weston, Stevie, Wyatt, and Heidi. He is also survived by his nephews, William Bryan Tanner and wife Carolyn, and Paul Tanner.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Julia Tanner; his brother, Bill Tanner; and his granddaughter, Cristen Joy.

The family will receive friends from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Crowder Funeral Home in Pearland, Texas, with a service to follow at 1:30 p.m. in the chapel, officiated by Pastor Jim Tucker. Burial will follow at Forest Park Lawndale in Houston. Pallbearers will be Joe Ashworth, Jim Sasser, Cole Ashworth, Timothy Sasser, Roy Cox, and Bryan Tanner.

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Today, we gather to honor and celebrate the life of a man defined by commitment, sacrifice, faith, and unwavering love—Mr. Rodney Tanner.

At the age of 19, Rodney answered a call greater than himself by enlisting in the United States Air Force. What began as a young man’s decision became a distinguished 30-year career marked by discipline, excellence, and dedication to his country.

Serving as a radar specialist at Ellington Air Force Base, Rodney played a critical role in ensuring the safety, precision, and readiness of aircraft and their crews. In 1976, he continued his service through the Texas Air National Guard and the United States Air Force Reserve, extending his commitment and impact for decades.

Throughout his military career, Rodney worked on some of the most significant aircraft in our nation’s history, including the F-16 Fighting Falcon, the F-4 Phantom of the Vietnam era, the C-130 transport aircraft, various bomber platforms, and training jets supporting NASA’s Johnson Space Center. While these aircraft were vital to our nation’s defense, Rodney’s contribution was equally vital—ensuring they were mission-ready with excellence and integrity.

Yet, if you asked Rodney what he valued most, it would not simply be his years of service or the aircraft he supported—it would be the people. The bonds he formed, the friendships he built, and the shared sense of purpose he carried with quiet strength throughout his life.

Following his military service, Rodney answered an even greater calling. In 1987, he became an ordained minister, dedicating his life to serving the Lord and sharing the message of hope, grace, and salvation. Through his faithful service at Faith Assembly and Bethany Assembly of God, he touched countless lives, both near and far, through his ministry and his example.

At the center of Rodney’s life was his family.

He shared nearly seven decades of marriage with his beloved wife, Jo Ann—a remarkable testament to enduring love, faith, and commitment. Together, they built a strong and lasting foundation, raising their children—David, Denise, and Dana—and creating a legacy that continues through generations.

Rodney Tanner was a patriot in the truest sense. He did not seek recognition, nor did he require applause. Instead, he lived with humility, showing up each day with a steadfast commitment to doing what was right, what was needed, and what was honorable.

That is the measure of a life well lived.

Today, we do not simply remember Rodney’s service—we honor his legacy. A legacy of faith, of family, of service, and of integrity. A legacy that will continue to live on through all who knew and loved him.

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”