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TANNER -- Lewis Raymond (Ray) Tanner Jr., 85, a longtime resident of Albuquerque and a New Mexico native, passed away on Tuesday, May 2, 2006. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Bettie A. Tanner of Edgewood, NM; son, Ronald Tanner of Albuquerque, NM; son, Gary Tanner of Aurora, CO; son, Randy Tanner and wife, Carmel of Seattle, WA; daughter, Terri Mims and husband, Philip of Albuquerque, NM; son, Tyson and wife, Anne of Edgewood, NM; grandchildren, Brandon Tanner, Shane Tanner, Shad Tanner, Jade Lambro, Chance Mims, Kendall Mims, Calen Mims, Zachary Tanner; and great-grandchildren, Trinity, Dylan, Dustin, Meah, Jason, Rylan, Jocie, and Morgan. Mr. Tanner was preceded in death by both parents and one grandson, Jason Tanner. Ray was born October 4, 1920 in Maxwell, NM to the late Alice and Lewis (Lou) Tanner Sr. He graduated from Albuquerque High School in 1938 where he excelled in sports, and he met the love of his life, Bettie Marshal. They married on January 18, 1940. He graduated from UNM where he played both basketball and baseball, and received the honor of High Point Man in the Border Intercollegiate Athletic Conference under the distinguished Lobo basketball coach Roy "Ironhead" Johnson. He made his career with the AT&SF Railroad in Las Vegas, NM where he and Bettie began raising their family while living in a box car. During this time he also coached American Legion baseball. He retired in 1986 after 47 years, and started the family business Tanner Homes, Inc. in Edgewood, NM. He actively participated in this endeavor until very recently. Ray's athleticism and love for all sports was passed on to each of his children who have incorporated that love into their own lives and the lives of their children with the same passion. He will be remembered for many things; his quiet and gentle character, his strong work ethic, his love for animals, his strength in sports, his warm and constant smile, but most importantly, for the love he gave to the family he leaves behind. We are comforted knowing he is now in the presence of his Lord and Savior. Cremation has taken place and a private family memorial will be held. Direct Funeral Services 2919 4th St. NW 343-8008.
        Published on: Sat May 06, 2006