Margaret Shealy Tanner, age 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on December 28, 2025. She is now resting in the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Margaret was a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, sister, and faithful friend.  She lived a life marked by deep faith, selfless love, and quiet strength. Her family was the greatest joy of her life, and she poured herself wholeheartedly into caring for her family. Her home—and her heart—were always open.

Margaret’s love extended far beyond her family. She cared deeply for her neighbors, her church family, and anyone God placed in her path. Whether through a kind word, a warm meal, or faithful prayer, she made others feel seen, valued, and loved. Her life was a reflection of her unwavering faith, and she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to impact generations.

She was preceded in death by her parents John Claude and Edith Johnson Shealy, and her beloved husband, Bill Nathaniel Tanner.

She is survived by her sister, Claudia Shealy; four children, Lee Tanner (Katherine), Barbara Peabody, Tammie Brasfield (Larry), and Billy Tanner (Sandra); 13 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; 7 great-great grandchildren, along with extended family members, and many dear friends.

A celebration of Margaret’s life will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at Crescent Hill Baptist Church, 2659 Two Notch Road, Columbia, SC 20204. Services will begin at 2:00PM. The family will receive friends and extended family in the fellowship hall downstairs following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Crescent Hill Baptist Church, honoring Margaret’s lifelong devotion to serving the Lord and others.

Though our hearts will grieve, we rejoice knowing that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. We take comfort knowing she is now fully restored, at peace, and at home.  Her legacy of faith, love, and sweetness will live on through generations to come.