Lee Ann Tanks

Lee Ann Tanks, born on September 14, 1968, to her adopted parents, John Clackum and Carolyon Hopkins, was a woman of profound faith, dedication, and generosity. Later in life, Lee Ann reconnected with her biological mother, Ann Dunbar, forming an endearing bond that enriched her days and brought a deeper sense of family to her life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved uncle, James W. “Jim” Dunbar, and her nephew, Jeremy Clackum.

Lee Ann’s spiritual journey was a cornerstone of her identity. Baptized at a young age, she later experienced a true and transformative relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. As a faithful member of Mount Paran Church, she worshiped with devotion and lived as a testament to her unwavering faith until she was called home to be with her Savior.

A graduate of Douglas County High School, Class of 1986, Lee Ann began her career in banking shortly afterward. During her time at Trust Company Bank, she met Carla Swanson Clonts, her closest friend and confidante, whom she considered her sister. Their bond was one of shared experiences, laughter, and unwavering support throughout Lee Ann’s life.

In 2001, Lee Ann transitioned from banking to public safety, dedicating herself to serving her community as a 911 dispatcher for Cobb County Public Safety. Over her 24-year career, she advanced within the Fire Marshal’s Office, ultimately serving as a Fire Investigator Technician. Her commitment to her work reflected her natural ability to take on greater responsibilities and excel in her professional endeavors.

Lee Ann’s greatest joy was being a mother to her son, Justin Bradley Jean, born on December 4, 2002, to her and Brad Jean. Justin was the light of her life, and she took pride in every milestone he achieved, especially his decision to become a U.S. Marine. As a mother, she found purpose and fulfillment in her sacrifices, cherishing Justin as her pride and joy.

Lee Ann later married the love of her life, William “Bill” Tanks, with Carla standing by her side as her maid of honor. William not only became her devoted husband and best friend, but also embraced Justin as his own, becoming a loving bonus dad to Lee Ann’s cherished son. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and treasured moments.

Lee Ann precedes in her heavenly transformation her beloved husband, William “Bill” Tanks; her son, Lance Corporal Justin Bradley Jean; her mother, Ann Dunbar (Walt Mohr); her brothers, Steve Dunbar and Dean Clackum (Beverly); her sister, Jaimie Clackum; her bonus children, Eboni, Phillip (Catherine), and Naomi Tanks; her grandchildren, Malachi, Charity, and Meghan, who affectionately knew her as “Nana”; her nephew, Alec Dunbar (Deshlin), her niece Katie Grace Clackum; and her cherished friend and godmother to her son Justin, Carla Swanson Clonts.

Lee Ann Tanks lived a life of remarkable faith, love, and service, touching all who knew her with her compassion and devotion. She will be remembered not only for the roles she played as a mother, wife, friend, and public servant, but also for the radiant kindness and strength she brought to the lives of others. May her legacy inspire those who mourn her loss to live with the same dedication to faith, family, and community that defined her life.

Rest in peace, Lee Ann Tanks. You are loved and cherished beyond measure.