William Tanner

William “Bill” Welsby Tanner passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 in his home in Mesa, AZ. He was 86. He was a loving husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather and dear friend to many.

Bill was born on Staten Island, New York on March 19, 1939 to Isabel and Walton Tanner. He lived most of his life on Grand Island, New York. That is where he met the love of his life, Phyllis. He married Phyllis Lafferty on September 8, 1961. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from the University of Buffalo and a Bachelor of Science degree in Math from Michigan State University. Bill’s first job was at Godfrey's grocery store at age 14. He kept the floors swept. Throughout college, he worked as a mailman. His first job after college was as an industrial engineer for John Deere in Moline, Illinois. From Illinois, he moved to Arizona where he worked in the finance department of Motorola until his retirement.

In his free time Bill enjoyed the simple moments spent with his family and friends. He loved to run, swim, camp, hike, travel to new places, read, watch movies and work on the computer. He dearly loved his cabin in the mountains and had many beautiful memories there with his wife, family and friends.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was an integral part of his life.The highlight of his service in the church was serving a mission with his wife in the Nauvoo Illinois Temple. Bill lived a life filled with love, laughter and kindness. He was known for his warm smile, gentle demeanor, and unwavering generosity.

Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Isabel and Walton Tanner, his brother Barr, his sons William and Sean, his granddaughter Bailee, and his great granddaughter Markie.

Bill is survived by his wife, Phyllis, and his children and their spouses: Nadine and Bryan McBride, Brian and Sarah Tanner, Brent Tanner, Curtis Tanner, and Susie and Jose Verdugo. He is survived by 28 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

The family of Bill Tanner wishes to extend their sincere thanks to the members of the Greenfield Park and Elliot wards, the employees of Sante of Mesa, and the many friends of Bill and his family.

Viewing and funeral services will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Greenfield Park ward building located at 532 S. Greenfield Rd. Mesa, AZ, 85206. The viewing will begin at 9:30 am with the funeral services following at 11 am. Graveside services and burial will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at the Central Cemetery in Central, AZ at 11 am. Arrangements for the funeral services are by Horizon Funeral Care in Mesa, AZ. Arrangements for the burial are by Vining Funeral Home in Safford, AZ.