Ellen Blake Tanner Tarver Straach was born in Cooper, TX on September 10, 1921, to her parents, Floyd and Virgie Tanner. She passed away surrounded by her loving family and into the presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on March 1, 2018.
Until her retirement in 1986, she worked as an administrative secretary for the City of Dallas Parks and Recreation Department. She was a member and dedicated servant at Central Lutheran Church in Dallas for over thirty years. Ellen was a past president of the Dallas Business and Professional Womens’ Association, an avid bridge player, and an active member and officer of the Beta Sugma Phi sorority. The highlight of every month for Ellen was having lunch with her Kit group friends. In addition, she and Gene traveled the U.S. and Europe and joined in neighborhood events and dinner groups.
Ellen was known for her giving spirit and quick sense of humor. She was a supportive and joyful mother and grandmother. She loved to entertain and spend holidays and summers —anytime—with her family and friends.
Ellen was preceded in death by her husband of 28 years, the father of her children, Henry Adrion Tarver; her parents Floyd and Virgie Tanner, brothers Thomas, Floyd, Jr., and James Richard “Dick” Tanner.
She is survived by her husband of 33 years, Eugene Straach; his daughter Deanna Greer and husband Tommy; grandchildren Rhonda Greer Long, great-grandson Taylor Long and wife Jana; great-great grandson Harrison Long; grandson Scott Greer and wife Pam, great-grandchildren Landry, Lexi, and Layton.
Ellen’s Children:
Carolyn Rothrock and husband Charles
Glenn Tarver and wife Martine
Sherrie Tarver
Kirk Tarver and wife Julie
Her grandchildren:
Aubre Smith and wife Renee
Kristine Pharr and husband Steve
David Gates and wife Kelly
Richard Tarver and wife Jennifer
Samantha Tarver Hicks
Laura Reeves and husband Chris
Chelsea Parker
Katie Parker and Noe Peralta
Becky Tarver McWilliams
Blake Tarver
Jacob Parker
Her great-grandchildren:
Brianna and Taylor Smith, Alexander Yi, Gavin Wheeler
Cameron Thibodeaux and Claudia Pharr
Anne Sinclair Gates
Garrett and Gunner Tarver
Keonna Hicks
London, Christian, and Henry Reeves
Luci and Anderson Peralta
Jackson Crowell and Carly McWilliams
Arden Tarver
