Ellyn Gorham Pell Tanner died February 27 of complications of Alzheimer’s.
Born in Charlotte, November 30, 1929, the daughter of Allison H. Pell and Ellyn D. Gorham, she grew up in Pellyn Wood when it was still “country” with plenty of space to ride her horse. She attended Charlotte Country Day School, then graduated from Southern Seminary where she participated in every sport they offered. At UNC-CH she met her future husband, James T. Tanner, and for the next 65 years they lived in Rutherfordton, NC, their home facing a spectacular view of the Smokey Mountains. There she played the role of a traditional Southern lady to perfection, constantly entertaining family, friends and associates of the family business, Doncaster, which she was so proud of. The menu always consisted of her homemade casseroles and desserts and she did every flower arrangement from her own beautiful gardens. Every Sunday found her in the alto section of the choir at the First United Methodist Church.
She had extraordinary artistic talents. Through the Historical Society of Early American Decorations, she learned the art of ornamental trays. Never one to dabble in anything, she painted hundreds of trays and items using hand copied stencils and gold leaf. When grandchildren started coming, she took up smocking, mass producing outfits for all thirteen. Her most unique artistic endeavor was collecting folk art, hundreds of items filled the family beach house like a museum.
With all her talent and accomplishments, the only really important thing in her life was her husband and children and their families. Her life revolved around them completely. They depended upon her emotionally and physically, until the end, when she depended upon them. An anniversary gift of a pair of bronze swans from her husband included the note, “Swans mate for life. I reckon we can too.” And they did. He died just two months earlier than she. She is survived by her four children James T Tanner Jr. (Cathy), Wynn Tanner (Michael Robinson), Kathryn T. George (A.C.), and A. Pell Tanner (Nancy), 13 grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and a brother Edward L. Pell (Dee).
A family service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to: Alzheimer’s Research at Wake Forest Baptist or the charity of your choice.