Tanner Ray Newman, 29, of Richmond, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, March 18, 2025, in Richmond.

Tanner was born on June 9, 1995, in Liberty, the son of Stephen Britt and Tracey Ann (Peart) Newman.

Survivors include: his father, Stephen (Michelle) Newman of Polo; his mother, Tracey (David) Renfro of Richmond; five brothers: Jeremy (Brittany) Renfro and Ryan (Ashley) Renfro, both of Richmond, Colton Newman, Carter Newman, and Tucker Newman, all of Polo; paternal grandmothers, Brenda Clemens of Richmond and Karen Reitzler of Polo; maternal grandparents, Jan Wardwell of Richmond, and Larry & Jane Renfro of California, MO; uncles & aunts: Staci Findley of Ashland, Tanya & Mark Schieble of Richmond, Susan Balthrop of Kansas City, Kyle & 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 from Richmond High School with the class of 2014. After high school, he began his career at Ford Motor Company, where he worked as a dedicated forklift driver and was a proud member of Autoworkers Union Local #249.

Tanner had a deep and abiding Christian faith. He was baptized on February 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 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with memorial services will be held on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 2:00 P.M., with services to follow at 3:00 P.M.  Inurnment will follow services in Richmond Memory Gardens.  Please remember to share your memories of Tanner with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.