Henry Edward Tanner

Henry was born in Indianapolis to James E. and Rev. Inez E. Tanner. He was the youngest of seven children and was often referred to as the "baby brother." Henry accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at St. John A.M.E. Church under the pastorage of Rev. John Perry.

He attended John Hope Elementary School #26 and graduated from Arsenal Technical High School in Indianapolis. While in high school, Henry was a standout athlete, becoming an Indiana State Wrestling Champion and named Outstanding Wrestler of the State Tournament in 1955. Due to his athletic accomplishments, in 1984, he was inducted into the Indiana High School Wrestling Hall of Fame.

Henry lived his life believing in hard work and always giving your best. Henry began his professional life at a young age working for the Gibson Company. On October 1, 1963, he was appointed to the Indianapolis Fire Department, Badge No. 748. He spent his first day as a firefighter assigned to Engine 15. Throughout his career, Henry rose through the ranks due to his dedication and skill. He was promoted to various positions, including Rescue Squad, Chauffeur on Engine 02, Lieutenant, and Captain. Ultimately, he was promoted to District 2 Chief on June 26, 1988, a position later reclassified as Battalion 12. He retired from the department on December 1, 2005 after 42 years of service.

On March 2, 1956, Henry was united in marriage with Ellen Polin Tanner. They shared forty-three years of marriage until Ellen’s death on November 14, 2003. The two had three daughters: Sherri A. Tanner, Veneita L. Tanner, and Tashia L. Tanner, whom they loved dearly.

Throughout his life and after his retirement, Henry was a regular member of the "Illinois Street McDonald’s Breakfast Club," where he enjoyed lively discussions about politics and sports over many cups of coffee. Henry deeply loved his friends, his church, and his family. Above all, he loved the Lord with his whole heart.

Henry was an avid gardener and landscaper. He spent countless hours pruning and cultivating a garden-like setting for his wife and family to enjoy. He enjoyed fishing, walks, blues music and many many home improvement projects

Henry was preceded in death by his wife, Ellen P. Tanner; his parents James and Inez; his brothers, Gerald Tanner, James Gaylor, and Harry Tanner; and his sister, Dorothy J. Foley.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory his children: Sherri A. T. Rogers, Veneita L. Willis (Ron), and Tashia Tanner; his sister Doris Wilson and brother John W. Tanner; his grandchildren, Michael D. Rogers (Jill) and Kaylah L. Willis; and his great-grandchildren, Hannah M. Rogers and Joshua M. Rogers; along with a host of nieces and nephews.

"In His Resurrection, we will see each other again."

A visitation will be held at St. John AME Church, located at 1669 Columbia Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202, on January 23, 2026, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm.

A Celebration of Life will follow at the same venue, starting at 1:00 pm.