On December 9, 1946 in Spartanburg, SC, Samuel Alvin Tanner was born to Hattie Parham and David Tanner.

As a young boy the family moved to Asbury Park, NJ where he began school. They then relocated to Brooklyn, NY where Sam attended P.S. 152, Ditmas, and Erasmus Hall H.S.

Sam was extremely creative and his artistic talents won him many accolades. He also was interested in many other pursuits, often following his older brothers, David and John, into various jobs including machinist, shipping, core maker, and shop steward.

After many work experiences he settled upon his favorite position, working in inventory control with the NYC Dept. of Parks. He met a special coworker named Spiro who was a terrific team player.

Sam had two daughters, Simi Lotus and Samadhi, whom he cherished showing them love and teaching them how to be good productive members of society.

Moving to Va. Beach after marriage and gaining three other children. He was a proud father of this blended family and took great care of his responsibilities. He explored many other interests including real estate and landscaping, both of which he mastered. He taught himself to play the guitar and piano. His hobbies included swimming, playing tennis, martial arts, working out daily, and movies.

On Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2020, he transitioned after a lengthy illness leaving behind to cherish his memory are his loving and devoted wife, Queen, daughters, Simi (Va. Beach), Samadhi (NYC), Rachel Hendricks (Va. Beach), Sekou Richen (GA), and Askia Richen (NYC); sisters, Linda Simuel (NJ), and Debra Gibson (NJ); grandchildren, Kevin, Alexis, Paris, Ava, Askia, and Assyria, as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins, and family members who all loved him.

Sam was predeceased by his parents, Hattie and David, and three brothers, David, John, and Fred.

Mrs. Veorah Mungin (wife’s aunt) always called Sam “Gentleman” from the day she met him, and he was.

“I lived a good life, constantly evolving trying to find my way. It was important to me to be the best man I could be”. - Sam