Etsuko Higa Tanner, 90, unexpectedly passed away peacefully in Charlotte, NC surrounded by her family on Saturday, February 6, 2021.

Mom was born on March 21, 1930 in Atami-Shi, Shizuoka, Japan. A few years after her birth the family returned to Naha, Okinawa. Mom met our dad, Master Sergeant Sam M. Tanner, after WWII, they fell in love and were married in February 1950. Together they raised four children and traveled to several different Air Force Bases during dad's career. Upon retirement they settled in Niceville, FL.

All of nature was one of mom's first loves. She saw beauty in even its simplest forms. Mom kept her garden meticulously manicured and enjoyed maintaining her Koi pond. Another of her favorite pastimes was tending to her bountiful grapefruit tree which she planted as a tiny seed in 1971. When time became her own, she pursued numerous hobbies such as sewing, painting, reading, traveling, and playing the bamboo flute and Japanese Koto.

She dedicated her life to Christ, family, neighbors, and friends. She was always available to help those in need. Mom was a charter member of Emerald Coast Church of Christ, Florida Kenjin-Kai, Charlotte AbanaKana-Kai and was a proud American citizen. Mom lived the latter days of her golden years with daughter, BettyAnn, and her family in North Carolina.

Mom is preceded in death by her husband, Sam; parents, Morizo and Maka Higa; brother, Kenkai Higa; two sisters, Kasua Higa and Tomiko Oshiro.

She is survived by her children, Dick Tanner (Kathy), Connie Chason (Tom), Doris Fudo (Steve Long), BettyAnn Dominick (Brian); grandchildren, Betsy and Tori Tanner, Ashley Chason, Lee Chason (Melissa Bermudas), Alexis Fudo (Garrett Minor), Tanner Dominick; great grandson, Anderson Tanner; a special step-granddaughter, Tracie Lewick; as well as several nieces and nephews. Her warm, nurturing spirit and beautiful, cheerful smile will be missed by all who knew her.

In keeping with guidelines for gathering during the pandemic, a Celebration of Life will be private with Minister Cecil Belk officiating. Interment will be at Barrancas National Cemetery beside her beloved husband, Sam.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations in mom's name to Emerald Coast Church of Christ, 300 S. Ave., Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547, or a charity of your choice in mom's name.