Tanner Jake Turley, age 27, of Kokomo, Indiana, passed away on October 2, 2026. Born on July 9, 1999, in Kokomo, IN, Tanner was the son of Thomas and Tammy Turley. He was deeply cherished and beloved, and his passing leaves a profound absence in the lives of all who knew him.
Tanner attended Western High School in Russiaville, IN, graduating in 2018. He later attended Ivy Tech Community College to study welding, bringing the same steady determination to learning a trade that he carried into every part of his life. Through hard work and resilience, he built a path marked by pride in doing things well and the quiet strength to keep moving forward.
In his career, Tanner truly loved his job, and his dedication did not go unnoticed. He had recently been promoted to Foreman at the LIUNA Laborers Union Local 274—an achievement that reflected both his work ethic and the trust he earned through loyalty, reliability, and consistent effort.
Away from work, Tanner’s adventurous spirit showed in the many ways he enjoyed spending his time. He enjoyed golf, disc golf, fishing, and hunting, and he could often be found playing corn hole, darts, and pool, or gaming. His passion, however, was always baseball. It was a joy to watch him play—he could knock the ball out of the park, played as the clean-up batter, and was known as the home run king. Tanner also enjoyed weight-lifting and working out, and he loved cooking and grilling out. A devoted sports fan, he especially loved watching games with his dad and brother—if he wasn’t playing, he was watching.
Tanner’s kind heart was felt in the everyday moments: in his steadfast loyalty, in the warmth behind his beautiful smile, and in a wonderful, crazy, contagious laugh that could brighten a room. He delighted in lovingly pestering his niece, Makia Turley, and he loved animals—most especially Otis, his K9 best buddy. Tanner’s legacy is one of devotion to family, genuine care for others, and a spirit that remained strong through life’s demands.
Tanner is survived by his father, Thomas Turley; his mother, Tammy Turley; his sister, Teagan Turley; his brother, Treyton Turley; his niece, Makia Turley; his grandmothers, Linda Smith and Karen Siebert; his grandfathers, Lannie Williams and Edward Smith; his uncles, Steven Siebert, Tommy Williams (Ashley), Troy Turley (Elle), Buddy Williams (Traci), and his aunts, Laurie Dwigans (Pete) and Lisa Tidler (Tiny); his beloved dog, Otis; and several cousins and friends.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Paige Turley; his grandfathers, Richard McLochlin, Charles Turley, and Rodney Siebert; his grandmothers, Shelly McLochlin and Joyce Smith; his great-grandmothers, Wilma Baldwin, Betty Parsons, and Charlene Turley; and his great-grandfathers, John Parsons and John Turley.
There will be a gathering to remember Tanner on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 1:00pm until 3:00pm, the time of the Celebration of his Life service, at Ellers Mortuary and Cremation Center, 3400 S. Webster St., Kokomo. Immediately following the service, the family invites family and friends to continue the celebration of Tanner's life with a meal at 1510 S. Market St., Kokomo.
Tanner will be remembered for his love and loyalty. He will be forever missed.
