Robert Vance Tanner Sr.

Robert Tanner, a servant leader, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2026 at his home in Pinopolis, SC, at the age of 92. Born on January 3, 1934, in Marion, SC, to the late Reed Clifton Tanner, Sr and Corinne Cox Tanner, Robert was known by everyone for his humble generosity, his acts of service and unquestionable integrity.

Family was the foundation of Robert’s life. He is survived by his beloved wife of almost 69 years, Maxine Jarrett Tanner; children Corinne Tanner Page, Robert Tanner Jr, Jarrett Tanner Usry and her husband Floyd, grandchildren Rachael Rogers (David), Jake Page, Tripp Usry (Allie), Mackie U. Neely (Ryan), William Tanner; and 16 great grandchildren. Robert was preceded in death by his parents and four siblings: brothers, Reed Clifton (R.C.) Tanner, Jr., John Thomas Tanner, and sisters Elizabeth Ann Clarke and Susan J. Tanner.

Robert graduated from Kingstree High School where he and Maxine were voted Most Popular. He earned a Mechanical Engineering degree from the Clemson Agricultural College and was a licensed Professional Engineer. In September 1957, Robert married Maxine Jarrett. After a short stint at the Tennessee Valley Authority, Robert joined Santee Cooper. His work ethic, mechanical sense and integrity launched a distinguished 37 year career at Santee Cooper, retiring as executive vice president and chief operating officer in 1995. As an American patriot, Robert served 23 years in the S.C. Army National Guard, in both infantry and armor battalions, retiring as a Major.

Robert began his Santee Cooper legacy at the Grainger Generating Station, during its construction, and later served as Plant Superintendent. His talent was recognized at Grainger and subsequently he transferred to Santee Cooper in Moncks Corner to manage the construction of generating stations. As he progressed in leadership, he assumed responsibilities for the operation and construction of all generating stations. During his tenure, the Santee Cooper Regional Water System was constructed. During these three decades, Santee Cooper led the state’s utility industries through a period of rapid growth and expansion, completing projects “on schedule and under budget” and most importantly serving the residents and businesses of S.C.

Regardless of his position, Robert did not consider any job too big or small for him. He could move easily between the Board of Directors to a generating station craftsman. If needed, he would lend a hand with a shovel or wrench. This work ethic mindset extended to how he valued every person. He treated every person with respect – “from the field to the Board Room.”

One of the greatest compliments paid to Robert, was the local mantra within the utility, that if you wanted to be an outstanding employee, you should “emulate Mr. Tanner.”

He made a generational difference in the S.C. utility industry yet his greatest accomplishment was touching individual lives with fairness and kindness.

Robert’s dedication to his career was matched only by his devotion to his faith and his community. For 50+ years, he served the Moncks Corner United Methodist Church where he served on the Board of Trustees, taught the Guilds Scott Sunday School, led numerous building remodeling efforts and oversaw the design and construction of the fellowship hall. His wisdom, common sense and vision enriched the physical and spiritual life of the congregation over decades.

His leadership and service in the community reflected his heart of service: Rotary Club President and member; Board of Directors Methodist Oaks residential center, Boy Scouts and Salkehatchie volunteer. He was never happier than when he was working on a project to serve others. Service was his love language.

Robert put his soul into the hands of God as a young man. He lived daily in the presence of God. His greatest day on earth was his last, when he walked through the door of death into the presence of his Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” John 17:3

Family will receive friends at the Moncks Corner United Methodist Church on Wednesday, August 26, 2026 at 1030 am-12 pm, followed by funeral services at 12 pm. Interment will follow at St John’s Baptist Church Cemetery in Pinopolis, SC.

In memory of Robert’s servant’s heart, memorials can be made to:

Africa Inland Mission Air (AIMAIR): https://aimair.org/give/ Hope Repair, https://hope-repair.org (Moncks Corner SC)

Moncks Corner United Methodist Church http://monckscornerumc.org/donate/