Grant Howard Tankersley - ForeverMissed.com Online Memorials

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Passed away in Texas

Grant Howard Tankersley, 80, passed away on Wednesday, August 8, 2018 in Montgomery, Texas. Being a kind and loving person, Grant will be sincerely missed by many who loved him.

Please join us in contributing stories and notes to our Tribute to his life.

Grant's Obituary

9/11/2018 UPDATE: We will be dedicating a tree for Grant at the Memory Park in Montgomery, Tx (next to Stewart Library) September 15 at 1:00 PM to be followed immediately by buffet at Amore on Walden Road.

Please see the STORY tab for information about the Memorial. A map and additional information posted under the story tab. All are welcome.

With Grace and Love,

The Tankersleys

Tributes

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August 27, 2019

It’s been a few days over a year since my precious brother crossed over to the other side. He was bigger than life itself to mechis little sister, always there for me, for his family and friends. My love for him was paramount because I watched him carry on every aspect of love, kindness and loyalty that our parents demonstrated to both of us and to our community. There were many sacrifices our parents made to give their best to others. So very grateful my brother and I witnessed this and instinctly believed this was just a normal way of life. My handsome, loving brother will always be my hero, as I draw closer to the promise of the world to come, I am comforted to know we will be reunited and that love will be all encompassing. I miss you my precious brother, I praise God for the gift of the love He gavecus the blessings He bestowed on our family.

September 15, 2018

Sheri ask for a memory from me -- so here it is. I will be thinking about you today wish I was there! My heart is with you, I miss Grant more than words can express. My dreams are filled with his presence. Tried to think of some funny stories but have come up with only one. Christmas was always such a magical time for my brother and me, our parents made it so, with wonderful decorating parties, trips to downtown Birmingham to see the wonderfully decorated windows with moving elf's, reindeer, animated Christmas scenes. Christmas cantatas that we took part in with all 10 of the public school choirs, which Grant and I both were members. When I was about 8 years old Grant was 12, I was beginning to know that Mom and Dad were really Santa Clause. Grant was trying to keep me believing. Some of our relatives came over late on Christmas Eve after Grant and I had already gone to our rooms for the night. I heard them talking and went into Grant's room to see if he was awake. He was so I asked him if he thought Santa Claus was downstairs talking to them, (testing him to see if he would tell me there is no Santa Clause). He said not yet bc we have not heard the hoofs on the roof yet bc we always wanted to hear Santa and his sleigh arrive. So we waited for a while and I fell asleep, all of a sudden he woke me up and said do you hear the hoofs on the roof. I didn't but I said do you hear them, he said yes. So I pretended that I did so I would not burst HIS bubble. I teased him about that every Christmas, I sent him a reindeer of some kind every Christmas!

August 26, 2018

I can’t believe I’m writing this today. I’m remembering a very special man who gave us our first experiences of Texas in true Tankersley style! You opened your doors and your heart to our family and made us feel like we’d always belonged. I loved the lazy days you made for us at Pumpkin Center as we enjoyed our children growing up, our Christmas times, our New Years Celebrations, our 4th of Julys, our Mardi Gras and our many other weekend nights over a wee cocktail chatting about our common interests (which as far as you and I were concerned) was family… yours and mine…both here and in Scotland. You were brilliant in your professional career but also a very sensitive and loving man who realized the difficulties of my being apart from family in Scotland. You helped guide me through the practicalities of that with your sound advice which still rings true today. I will treasure all of those memories and hope they will carry me through the heartbreak of missing you. I’m honored to have spent such good times with such a great man.
With Love
Christine
“I’m just a little old country boy but watch out!” Those were the words that Grant used to describe to me what he was doing on a chemical plant visit to Scotland in 1983. He knew that I had no clue about chemical engineering and evidently didn’t want to burden me with unnecessary detail. That’s the kind of guy he was, and to this day I still know very little about what he did back then. Grant was a people person who liked nothing better than to socialize with friends over a wee dram or two and it was no surprise that we made an immediate and enduring connection.
Although we were in different industries, on a professional level he was emphatic regarding the importance of building, supporting and nurturing a strong team. “You can only ever be as good as your people” he used to say. He encouraged me not to sweat the small stuff and quite often would offer sound advice on how to navigate the corporate minefield.
Moving to Texas from Scotland was a huge step for our family and Grant and Pat were always there for us when we needed them. It made the transition so much less painful.
As a family, we have fond and happy memories of our many trips to Marshall to the “Ranch” at Pumpkin Center, and the many tales that will no doubt grow arm and legs in the years to come. For Christine and me it was our weekend sanctuary but for our kids Grant always made sure that it was a blast.
There is nothing that I can add to what has already been written here except to say that to all who knew him, Grant was a deep, thoughtful, caring and loving person.
Grant, thanks for everything you have given us, you are sadly missed.
Bob

August 22, 2018

My Father was quite a rare person. He was also full of contradictions.
Intimidating but gentle and unassuming, Life of the party but could spend
many long hours alone, Intelligent but befuddled by emotions, etc...
   He was a true Gemini, always light and airy. It was hard to catch him.
Maybe that's why he fell in love with a butterfly.
    He was a magnificent combination of his ancestors and thoroughly
enjoyed finding out about his Scottish, English and Cherokee heritage.
    He loved his teams, his pets, his family and his friends, but I think he   loved his Mother most in this world.
    He is with her now, I believe.
   I never caught him.
  I never got enough of him.
       He is Truly forever missed.
I will think of you often but especially when I build a fire.

August 21, 2018

The Angus family met Grant thanks to a long term friendship between my mum Jenny and Pat .... and, as soon as they met in the early 1980s, Grant and my dad, Wullie, simply became great friends - the four of them spent many happy times together in Scotland and in the US - there was a lot of love (and fun) - they will have met up again over the last few days for sure.
My husband and son are both named Grant so you can imagine the immediate connection and our Debra took her first steps the day we met Grant. As our children were growing up, we also visited Texas and feel so honoured to have spent precious time with that very special man over the years .... such a gentle, knowledgeable and caring human being, who we all grew to love very much - we have many happy memories.
Our thoughts are with Pat, Sheri and Grant's family and friends.

August 21, 2018

I've know Grant for the past 13 years. During what we'd call his "latter" years and maybe I had a much different view of him than many of you who knew him earlier, when he was a young guy. Grant always came across as an educated gentleman. I guess I was more of a friend to Pat, but any of the many times I met him as I came to see her he was kind and polite. Often reminding me of the men of yesteryear who truly all women adore. We are so sorry he is gone from us and our hearts are with Pat and Grants family at this sad time. P Kay Bazan

August 19, 2018

I will always remember my dear cousin with a special love and many wonderful times shared. I am part of the Grant clan and our dear Mother’s were not just sisters but best friends. They passed this on to their children and the only thing separating us was distance, but we made good use of our time together. You will be missed until we can join you and what a celebration that will be. Love from all the Grant/Richards family.

August 18, 2018

Grant was "uncle Grant" to me. I was always excited to see him and talk with him. I loved him dearly. They don't make 'em like Uncle Grant very often. He was a manly gentleman who loved all of his family with nonjudgmental, unconditional, and warm love. He chose to see the good in us all and encouraged us to be our best. The world is a different place without him here. I know he is smiling with Papa (Howard) and Sweetie Pie (Claudine) in heaven along with many other loved ones. I hope I can be the positive influence that he was to so many throughout this life. Cheers to you Uncle Grant! I'm raising a glass of Grant's Scotch blended whiskey to us Grants of the world! May you dine with the angels and smile eternally!

August 18, 2018

Two of the Tankersley brothers, Howard and Pat, with their wives, Claudine and Donna, were very close, friends as well as family. The distance between Alabama and California made no difference at all, visits were often, filled with much laughter and love. Their children, Sylba, Grant, and myself, Susie, were embraced in that love and to this day, still are. They gave us wonderful memories and we raised our families by their example. Although I don't see my sweet cousins as often as we'd like, we still care deeply about each other and stay in touch. In our many long phone conversations Grant always showed me the love and support I needed at the time. When my parents passed he was the voice I relied on to help me take a deep breath and carry on. He was also the one I could cry with. As the years passed he always wanted to know about my children's accomplishments and, especially, their teenage antics. He would listen and laugh just as if they were his own. We had many conversations about college football. Virginia and UM are in the same conference and so we had before and after talks about the games, so much fun! When both our schools disappointed us we would root for Auburn, keeping it all in the family (hello, Dempsey's!). I am deeply grateful Grant was in my life and miss him terribly. I do know though that he is toasting all of us here with Claudine, Howard (cherry juice only), Pat, and Donna, happy to be together.

August 17, 2018

Grant and I had paper routes at the same time when I was 13/14 and Grant was a little older and he had a much bigger paper route, and when Grant wanted off to go on vacation he always came to me to deliver his route. I can never forget because it was 211 papers every day and on Sundays. Grant was a very generous at that time and paid me $.015 per paper per day and $.05 on Sundays. This rate was higher than normal for the time and I was always happy to be his go to guy and know that he felt he could trust me with his paper route. When he was there daily little sister was always there with him doing her part. Now these things may seem very minor in the grand scheme of life, but to me they are a big part of my childhood memories of a wonderful person, friend, and a family that I will never forget. Thanks for all the fond memories, and thanks to the Tankersley family for being a big part of my youth.

August 17, 2018

In the summer of 1981, I met a beautiful girl named Robin, Grant’s daughter. My first “introduction” to Grant was on the phone. His deep, powerful voice was somewhat intimidating. In anticipation of my first face to face meeting, I was scared and wondered what I was getting myself into! Upon meeting Grant in person, he quickly put me at ease and welcomed me. I have been honored and proud to be part of this wonderful family since then.
Grant was a brilliant guy—Chemical Engineering degree from UVA—wow! Well versed in many subjects, he and I talked about sports, TV shows, movies, books and very carefully, about politics! There were few things that Grant couldn’t talk about.
Although we were separated by miles, Grant was always there for us. Offering words of advice and encouragement when our children, Wendi, Sean and Charlie were growing up. All three of our children were able to spend time with their Papa in their youth and developed special bonds.
Grant was a kind, loving, caring, sometimes complicated man who will be greatly missed. When our earthly journey is completed, we look forward to reuniting with him in heaven. Rest in peace Grant, dear Father and Grandfather.

August 17, 2018

From Mark Dempsey. RIP Uncle Grant! You fought the good fight and now your dancing in heaven with your parents, Sweetiepie and Papa! What an amazing reunion of 3 of the most loving people I've ever known and amazing role models for the entire Tankersley/Dempsey families. Dont forget to have that cold beer with my Dad. Their beer of choice when visiting was Original Coors! So jealous. All my love Uncle Grant, your number #1 QB on the CB radio from our trip out west in 1976 signing out!

August 16, 2018

Grant, my big brother, was always my hero. He was 4 years older but always included me in his activities if at all possible. He loved his family with all his heart and soul. Our Parents taught us to always respect others, by example we watched their compassion and empathy always demonstrated in our everyday lives. I have so many memories of special holidays, vacations and family trips that he planned. His goal was to always keep us, our children and grandparents close. My parents were born and raised in Hall County, Georgia. My father came from a big family he had twelve brothers and two sisters. My mother had four brothers and two sisters. We were always traveling to GA for visits and family reunions, we were taught to cherish these relationships. Grant was a leader, he was awarded a scholarship to UVA his senior year at Ensley High School, Birmingham, AL, where he was President of the student body. He did very well at UVA received a Bachelor of Chemistry degree, he married Kathleen Blackburn and had two very beautiful daughters Robin and Kelly. They were his little darlings. From there he was a commissioned Air Force Officer that took him and his family to Japan for several years. He also attended Texas A&M obtained a meteorological degree. Grant never forgot where he came from. We have so many memories of special trips to the Smokies, Yellow Stone, Jackson Hole, WY, the Grand Tetons, Florida Beaches and holidays filled with love and laughter. He was the master planner who included his family, his beloved parents, me, as always, his little sister, his niece and nephew. He always wanted Robin and Kelly to stay close to us. He stayed close to my Uncle Pat and Aunt Donna and our cousin Susie, we loved to visit with them in California and they returned quite often to visit with us. After my Mom and Dad retired, he and Pat planned a trip and took my parents to Scotland, England, France and several countries in Europe in their later years. He made great friends with Pat’s friends from Scotland and introduced my parents to this sweet friendship. Grant, my big brother, was a man of few words but he loved very deeply and always had my back. He came often to help me take care of our Mom after Dad died, he loved her so and she adored him. God Speed Grant! They are all waiting to receive your soul with open arms. Thank you for the love and care you gave to Mom and Dad as well as all of us, till we meet again. You will forever be missed until we meet again.

August 16, 2018

I love all the photos of Uncle Grant! His happy smile and gentle soul will forever be remembered! I know he is celebrating life with Sweetie-Pie & Papa, amongst many others that have gone before us including my Dad. Visiting you all in Texas was always a treat! I have such a fun memory of Uncle Grant letting me drive his fun Pacer in Kingwood when I was only 12!
All of us traveling through the west was an experience I will never forget! 11 people in 2 cars! We also had a blast (very cold, but fun) camping in Texas :) I am fortunate to have shared the love for the theater with him. Robin, Kelly, Pat and Sheri I'm so sorry and pray for strength as we all say "til next time" (it's not good-bye). I Love you!

August 16, 2018

To Pat and the Tankersley Family:
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Grant. For much of my career at Solvay I either worked with Grant or directly for him. He was always kind and supportive regardless of the project or activity I was assigned. Having Grant be a part of my professional life was a blessing to me.
May God bless you as you recover from this loss.
Sincerely,
Lionel Garner

August 16, 2018

Dearest Pat and Sheri:
I am so sorry for the loss of dear Grant. I hope it helps to know that we are
with you in thought and sympathy and as time goes by, cherished memories will help bring you inner peace. The last time I spoke to him on the phone, Grant sounded so cheerful, I will always remember him that way. He lives on in your lives and all who knew and loved him.
Mary Jane DeLaune

August 14, 2018

My sentiments exactly Bill and Maggie. Grant was a valuable part of the management team. He encouraged, supported and went the extra mile for anyone that worked for him. My deepest sympathies are with Pat and family/friends during this time of sorrow. He won’t be forgotten. With sincere sympathy, Pamela Eakes

August 13, 2018

My experience was similar to Bill's. Being in HR I had a lot of experience working with Grant on employee issues, and it's hard to pinpoint a manager with more compassion or desire to be fair in all employee interactions. He was a good and kind man and a fun friend. He will be missed.
We send prayers for Pat and the whole family. We love you,
Maggie Muzikowski

August 13, 2018

To Pat and the Tankersley Family at this difficult time my condolences for your loss.
Grant was my boss and a dear friend. I worked with and for Grant most of my time at Solvay. On the job you knew he had your back. That made you feel free to aggressively pursue your objectives. If you messed up he would help you get back on track. Always strong always fair. Off the job Grant was fun to be around. Work would be put aside, and office protocol would be ignored. An occasional Happy Hour with colleagues gave us an opportunity to sip a beverage we both enjoy from the Scottish Highlands and enjoy the company of others. It was always just a good time.
I have been retired for over 25 years now and I still miss those times. And now I must miss Grant.
Sincerely
Bill Farrell

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August 27, 2019

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Gallery

On the Back Porch with Mary David and Wade at Glen Grant

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His Life

August 13, 2018

Grant grew up in Birmingham, Alabama where he graduated from Ensley High School. He continued to the University of Virginia graduating in Chemical Engineering and later went to graduate school at Texas A&M University.

Grant served in the Air Force during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Thailand and Japan and was discharged in 1968 at the rank of Captain.

Grant was employed by Soltex/Solvay Polymer Corporation for over 40 years. Grant was as a member of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and the Trigon Engineering Society-UVa. After retiring as the vice-president of the technical division, he began a new career at Texas State Technological College (TSTC) pioneering the effort to develop a new campus in Marshall, Texas.He also taught courses to train technicians for the polymer industry.

Grant was married to his caring wife Patricia for over 35 years. His favorite place to travel was Scotland where he could trace his family history. When they moved to Marshall, Texas they called their home in the Piney Woods “Glen Grant”.

They hosted family and visitors from all over the world and delighted in sharing their hospitality.Grant was always drawn to the trees. He loved looking at them and being with them.

His all-time favorite hobby was watching the University of Virginia playing any sport with a ball in it.

Grant was preceded in death by his parents, Sylba Claudine “Sweetie Pie” and Howard Tankersley, and baby sister Shirley Tankersley.

Grant is survived by his wife Patricia Tankersley of Montgomery, Texas, daughters Robin Roohan, Kelly Tankersley and mother Kathy; Sheri Stebenne; grandchildren, Wendi Spence, Sean Roohan and Charlie Roohan.He is also survived by his sister, Sylba Pruitt, niece Amy Wagner and her children, nephews Mark Dempsey and Grant Dempsey along with their children.

One of Grant’s hobbies was rescuing shelter dogs and cats, tirelessly devoting his time and attention to each and every paw. Grant is also survived by Cisco kitty, Brady, Little Bit and grand-dogs Dun, Odie, Cadence and Hannah. It is comforting to know Scotch, Soda, MissT, Tipper, Baxter and Wahoo the Cat will be waiting for him on the other side.

A memorial service for friends and family will be held at the Memory Park in Montgomery, Texas in September. Additional details will be posted on the memorial website. He will be interred with his parents in Birmingham, Alabama later this fall.

Condolences may be sent to the family at home.

Stories and remembrances are strongly encouraged in these pages and everyone looks forward to sharing memorable moments with Grant.

Those who wish, may donate in Grant's name to Memory Park, Montgomery, Texas at RCLCF, P O BOX 1252, Montgomery, TX 77356.

Memorial Service: Memory Park, Montgomery, TX

September 1, 2018

Please join us on Saturday, September 15, 2018 at 1:00 pm as we will hold a Memorial to dedicate a tree in Grant's Honor.

Memory Garden in Montgomery, Texas

The memorial will be outside and expected to last approximately half an hour. If you feel you need seating, please let us know (sheri.stebenne@gmail.com). We are happy to provide.

After the Memorial at Memory Garden, we will go to Amore restaurant to reminiscence with friends. A map of the area is provided below.

Amore on Walden Road, Montgomery, Texas:, Montgomery, TX 77356

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