Thurman Key “TK” Tanner - Obituary

Thurman Key “TK” Tanner peacefully passed away at his home on March 25th, 2026, at the age of 103 years old. He was preceded in death by his parents and nine siblings. He is survived by his wife, Imogene “Gene” Crane Tanner, age 100, and his son, Richard Key Tanner. TK and Gene would have celebrated 80 years of marriage this coming September.

TK was born January 20, 1923 in Ramer, TN. After finishing 8th grade in Chewalla, TN, he and his family moved to Corinth, MS. In July of 1940, TK joined the Corinth, MS NG, Co. H, 155th Inf., 31st Inf., DIXIE, Div. to make an extra dollar. A short time later, the division was inducted to active duty and sent to Camp Blanding, FL. TK also served with the 2nd Battalion Hqs. Co. and the 31st Duck & Amphibious Platoon of the “Dixie” division, serving in the South Pacific. He was serving on Mindanao in the Philippines preparing to invade Japan at the end of WWII. He was then discharged December 23, 1945 and was able to be home for his first Christmas since 1939. In January of 1946, he moved to Memphis and quickly met Imogene. They were married September 27, 1946. TK graduated from Memphis State College in 1950 and was a member of Delta Sigma Pi. He and Gene had one son, Richard. TK was self-employed in advertising, covering several states including Mississippi and Tennessee before retiring in 1982. TK loved being a mason, a life member with more than 70 years, and served two terms as worshipful master of Angerona Lodge No. 168, now Desoto Lodge No. 299. TK was also a 32-degree Scottish Rite Mason, a member of Al Chymia Shrine, a life member of the American Legion, DAV, and the VFW. He stayed active in all his organizations until his death with only coronavirus slowing him down since 2020. TK enjoyed several hobbys. He took up flying at age 48. He loved and collected old cars and was a member of two local car clubs. TK and Gene traveled throughout the USA with Jim Beam promoting Fancy Liquor Decanters in the National Jim Beam Association. They also attended annual reunions with the 31st Inf. “Dixie” Div. He enjoyed a full and active life with his wife and friends.

A private military service for family and close friends will be held at the West Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery. TK requested that any donations in his memory be made to Shriner’s Hospital for Children, care of Al Chymia Shrine Temple or donor’s choice.