Tanner was the living definition of charisma, never met a stranger, and sought adventure at every turn. His kids, Camden and Blayke, were the light of his life. He loved them more than could ever be expressed. He was a naturally gifted, star baseball player. In 2004 he guided Sulphur to their first state championship in more than 35 years. Tanner was a proud southpaw with a mean fast-ball and had a change-up that kept even the best batters lookin’ like fools. He was selected for Oklahoma’sAll-State Baseball Team and was even drafted by the New York Yankees, out of high school.

Tanner loved his family deeply and was the center of every room he entered. His magnetic presence lit the lives of all who knew him and even those who didn’t. He cherished the game of golf and would tell anyone who would listen about his long drives from the tee-box, which he insisted were on par with the best in game. He cherished the Sulphur First Christian Church and the people there who made it feel like home. Tanner took delight in cooking his favorite recipes (always heavy on the cream), showing Holstein cows, wearing the trendiest sneakers, and loved to keep us all laughing.

Tanner was welcomed into Heaven by his grandparents; Papaw (Bill Chitwood), Nene and Papa (Calvin and Inez Agee). Those who love him and will miss him until they see him again include; his beloved children Camden and Blayke Chitwood, loving parents Fred and Pam Chitwood, devoted brothers Ross Chitwood (husband, Zachary Kemper) and Bryce Chitwood (his person, Emily Boyett), honorary brother Chad Gilbert (and his sweet family), soul-mate Lauren White, beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and virtually everyone he knew, as Tanner had a gift for making everyone feel like family.

Tanner’s life was often complicated by his profound battle with addiction. The agony he felt was shared deeply by those who knew him and loved him for who he was. He fought so hard so many times to earn and maintain his sobriety. The burden is lifted as he no longer carries that weight. We urge anyone with similar struggles to remember that you are loved beyond comprehension. You are not alone. There is help. There is hope. Let there be light! Call or text 988 to be connected with resources. One day at a time.

In place of flowers, donations can be made to Sulphur High School in support of their baseball program or to the United Way of South Central Oklahoma to support addiction recovery programs. Tanner’s life will be honored on Wednesday, December 18th at 1:00 pm at the First Christian Church of Sulphur, Oklahoma. Services are under the direction of Hale’s Funeral Home and his family.