William Irvin “Sonny” Tanner, Jr.

ROCKY MOUNT - William Irvin "Sonny" Tanner, Jr., age 91, passed away on Friday, March 26, 2021. Born in Edgecombe County, NC on May 28, 1929, he was the son of the late William Irvin "W.I." Tanner, Sr. and Annie Hicks Tanner. He was also preceded in death by his first wife, Mary "Doodle" Bunting Tanner; his infant brother, James "Jimmie" Tanner; and his sister, Marie Tanner Lewis. Sonny began driving trucks at the age of 16 for his father at Tanner Transfers and Trucking Company. Later in life, he began driving for Trinity Steel until his retirement as the Terminal Manager following over 30 years of dedicated service. Sonny was a Master Mason and a member of the Corinthian Masonic Lodge 230 as well as being a Shriner. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending outdoors with his dogs with whom he loved. A devoted and loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, great-great grandfather, brother, and friend to many, Sonny will be deeply missed. Sonny is survived by his wife, Jean Pierce Tanner of Rocky Mount; son, Jimmy Tanner (Susan) of Rocky Mount; his daughters, Diane Tanner Speight (Steve) of Tarboro and Debra Tanner Lowe (Burt) of Rocky Mount; his step-daughter, Lisa Summerlin (Mike) of Elm City; his grandchildren, Stephanie Thompson, John Speight, John Lowe, Amy Chandler, Jimmy Tanner, Jr., and Braxton Tanner; 10 great-grandchildren; 3+ great great-grandchildren; his sister, Helen High; and numerous nieces and nephews. A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com. Service A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.