Rebecca Mayo (Thomas) Tant

Rebecca Mayo Thomas Tant, age 79, of Glencoe, AL, passed away on Monday, April 18, 2022. She was a devoted wife of 49 years to her late husband, Rev. Dr. Robert Harris Tant, Sr. and was a beloved mother to her 3 children Robin Tant Bedwell (Sam) of Selmer, TN, Robert Harris Tant, Jr. (Sarah) of Newburgh, IN, and Richard Mayo Tant, Sr. of Glencoe, AL. She was lovingly called Grandmimi by her 5 grandchildren Christian Harris Tant (Allison), Richard Mayo Tant, Jr., Austin Harris Tant, William Parker Bedwell, Anna Grace Bedwell; great-granddaughter Harley Mae Tant; step-granddaughter Lorelei Danita Taylor.

Rebecca’s love for the Lord was “not hidden under a bushel.” She “let her light shine” for the Lord first and foremost and given to Him all the glory. Her churches were a central part of her life, from the cradle roll at The First Baptist Church of Birmingham, AL, to the Sixth Avenue Presbyterian Church, where she was married to Mountain Brook Presbyterian Church, and at the time of her death Glencoe Cumberland Presbyterian Church which was at the close of her faithful journey as a minister’s wife serving alongside her husband for over 40 years in the ministry throughout Alabama and Tennessee.

She graduated from Phillips High School and attended Howard College (Samford University), where she studied voice and sang in the A Capella Choir under the direction of Dr. George Koski. Rebecca was a member of Delta Zeta Sorority. Her list of accomplishments is great, and her life experiences are immeasurable.

She will long be remembered for her beautiful voice that resonates in the hearts of those who have heard her sing. She was told by many that she had the voice of “an angel.” One could feel the presence of God’s divine mercy and love when she gloriously sang the “Holy City,” one of many beautiful pieces she sang. She was a life member of the Alabama and National Federation of Music Clubs and has performed on many stages, starting with the Alabama Theater as a small child.

Saturdays were dedicated to “The Tide.” She loved Alabama football, and no phone call or conversation was complete without her classic line, “Roll Tide, honey!” Her traditional 5:00 am birthday call to be the first to sing “Happy Birthday!” is one of the most cherished memories held in the hearts of her children and grandchildren. She was a fantastic cook but known for making the best “Greek Salads,” which was a requested favorite by many. She could tickle the ivories with flare and taught many children how to play the piano. Teaching children was a big part of her life in school and church settings. The sweet fragrance of a gardenia is a reminder of her love for them, and she prided herself in rooting the clippings to share with others.

She loved her family with all of her heart and constantly shared her love and encouragement. Those who knew her loved her. She has touched many lives and was loved by many. She will be missed by all who knew her.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, whom she adored, William and Lois Thomas of Birmingham, AL, and her daughter-in-law Mai Woody Tant, of Newburgh, IN.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 23, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Ridout's Valley Chapel, 1800 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, AL 35209. A celebration of her life will be Saturday, April 23, 2022 from 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM, 1800 Oxmoor Road, Homewood, AL 35209. A graveside service will occur Saturday, April 23, 2022 from 2:15 PM to 2:30 PM at Forest Hill Cemetery, 431 60th St. N., Birmingham, AL 35212.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutsvalleychapel.com for the Tant family.