Judith "Judy" Ward Tanner

Judith “Judy” Ward Tanner, 80 of Keysville passed away at Centra Southside Community Hospital in Farmville, VA on February 19, 2026, from the effects of a stroke.

She was born November 28, 1945, to the late Joseph Benjamin “Ben” Ward and late Ruby Vassar Ward. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband of 50 years Frank Wayne Tanner; an infant son Tony Darrell Tanner; a sister and brother-in-law, Betty Ward Dix and Earnest B. “June’ Dix, Jr. (whom she thought of as a brother).

She is survived by two daughters Terri Deloris Tanner of Keysville and Kandy Kaye Tanner (Hardy Dunavant) of Franklinton, NC. A nephew (whom she thought of as a son), Mark “Boo” Curtis Dix (Becky Styers Overstreet) of Keysville; and her beloved and faithful dog, Benji. Left behind is also her “buddy” Eugene Buchanan, who checked on her every day; along with several cousins and many friends.

Judy owned and operated Tanner’s Grocery in Keysville along with her husband Wayne for 40 years. She was a good friend to many, often lending and ear and offering advice and encouragement. She and Wayne quietly helped people through the years that were going through hard times.

After retirement, she enjoyed getting outside cutting grass on her riding lawnmower and keeping her yard looking nice. She looked forward to people calling and stopping by to chat. She also liked to hop in the car to ride every time the “wheels turned over”.

We would like to thank Dr. Clay Hall, Deborah Alder, the entire medical staff at Crewe Medical, and the Centra Medical Team for their great care and support.

A funeral service will be held at 11 am., Monday, February 23, 2026, in Ontario Christian Church, with interment to follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the Browning-Duffer Funeral Home on Sunday, February 22, 2026, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., and all other times at the home of Mark “Boo” Dix, 59 Dix Lane, Keysville, VA. Since animals held a special place in Judy’s heart, in lieu of flowers, please consider donations to: Southside SPCA, 797 Starlight Lane, Kenbridge, VA 23944 (write in the memo section of the check, in honor of Judy Tanner), or you can donate to a charity of your choice. The Browning-Duffer Funeral Home in Keysville, VA is in charge of arrangements.