Ethel Ola Tanner, affectionately known as Penny, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026, in Wheeling, West Virginia, at the age of 82. Born on May 16, 1943, in Marion County, West Virginia, Penny lived a life marked by dedication to her family and community.
Penny was a devoted member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church of New Martinsville, where she found solace and strength throughout her life. Her career was spent managing several retail stores, where she was known for her leadership and commitment to excellence.
Penny was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Father James H. Garrison Sr. and Mother Mable Gilbert Garrison; her husbands, Dewey Alexander and Ron Tanner; her cherished daughter, Inda Taylor; and her dear sisters, Shirley Garrison Schaffner and Kathrine “Kathy” Jane Garrison Cork.
She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her sons, Jim (Angela) Cummins Jr. and Chuck (Robin) Cummins; her sister, Rosemary “Sally” White; her brother, James “Jimmy” H. Garrison Jr.; her sisters, Sandra Rose Conley and Susan Elain Garrison Landers; her grandsons, Jamie Cummins and Aaron Goddard; and her granddaughters, Savannah Bond and Brook Cummins.
Services have been entrusted to Altmeyer Funeral Home – Lutes & Kirby-Vance chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to assist with end-of-life expenses.
Penny’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May she rest in eternal peace.
