The Richmond News, March 28, 2025

Tanner Newman

Tanner Ray Newman, 29, of Richmond passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, March 18, 2025, in Richmond. Tanner was born June 9, 1995, in Liberty, the son of Stephen Britt and Tracey Ann (Peart) Newman. Survivors include his father, Stephen (Michelle) Newman of Polo; and mother, Tracey (David) Renfro of Richmond. Other survivors include five brothers: Jeremy (Brittany) Renfro and Ryan (Ashley) Renfro, both of Richmond; and Colton Newman, Carter Newman and Tucker Newman, all of Polo.

He also is survived by his paternal grandmothers, Brenda Clemens of Richmond and Karen Reitzler of Polo; and maternal grandparents, Jan Wardwell of Richmond, and Larry and Jane Renfro of California, Mo. In addition, he is survived by his uncles and aunts, Staci Findley of Ashland, Tanya and Mark Schieble of Richmond, Susan Balthrop of Kansas City, Kyle and Jill Renfro of Marshall, and Jesse Newman of Liberty.

Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends also survive.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfathers, William “Bill” Peart and Joel Wardwell; and paternal grandfather, Dale Reitzler.

Tanner was raised and educated in Richmond, graduating in 2014 from Richmond High School.

After high school, he began his career at Ford Motor Co., where he worked as a dedicated forklift driver and was a proud member of Autoworkers Union Local No. 249.

Tanner had a deep and abiding Christian faith. He was baptized Feb. 13, 2022, at the Lawson Assembly of God Church, where he was an active and devoted member. He found great joy in serving his church community, whether by cooking for special events or assisting with media during services.

A man of many interests, Tanner had a passion for music and enjoyed playing and collecting guitars. He was a hardworking and generous soul who found relaxation in barbecuing and gathering around a campfire with family and friends. His love for animals was evident in the way he cared for them, even keeping snakes as pets.

Tanner had a natural warmth and an easygoing spirit that made everyone feel like a friend. His kindness, laughter and presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society of Ray County. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with memorial services were scheduled for Tuesday, March 25, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 2 p.m. and services to follow at 3. Inurnment was to follow the services in Richmond Memory Gardens.

Please share your memories of Tanner with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.