Jeffery L. Tanner

Jeffery L. Tanner, age 65, passed away on December 8, 2025, at Good Shepherd Hospice in Lakeland, FL. He was born on June 11, 1960, in Fairmont, WV.

Jeffery lived a life dedicated to service, hard work, and the people he loved. He retired as a Park Caretaker for Polk County Parks and Natural Resources, where he took great pride in caring for the spaces his community enjoyed. He loved restoring his Volkswagen Bug, working with model trains, and spending time with his dogs. Most of all, he cherished the moments he shared with his family and friends. He will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and warm, jovial spirit.

Jeffery led an incredibly diverse and impactful life, touching many different fields and helping others along the way. Throughout the years, he proudly wore many hats—serving in the United States Navy, working as an EMT, serving as a volunteer firefighter, driving as a long-haul trucker (often with his loyal dachshund, Tippy, by his side), and working as a skilled mechanic. Each role highlighted his dedication, resilience, and willingness to serve his community in any way he could.

He was preceded in death by his parents, C.H. and Marjorie (Pierce) Tanner, and his brother, Mark Tanner.

He is survived by his wife, Kristen Storms; daughters Summer Woods (John) and Autumn Pointer (Lee); stepdaughter Jennifer Jensen; grandchildren Amy Woods, John Woods, Destiny Norman (Cody), and Savannah Tanner; step-grandchildren Faith Bledsoe (RJ), Danny McClain, and Grace Jensen; and great-grandchildren Mia and Malia. He also leaves behind his brother David Tanner (Ava); sisters Carol Vieira (Ed) and Traci Fiveash (Jim); along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

Family will receive friends on Sunday, December 14, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Whidden-McLean Funeral Home, Bartow. A service will follow at 2:00 PM at the funeral home.

We invite you to join us as we celebrate the life of Jeffery “Jeff” L. Tanner—a man of great heart, humor, and generosity—at Front Page Brewery from 3:00–7:00 p.m. following the service. Bring your stories, your memories, and raise a glass in honor of a life well-lived.

Condolences to family at www.whiddenmcleanfuneralhome.com