Scott Davis Tanner

The family of Scott Davis Tanner of Needham is saddened to announce his unexpected passing on April 14, 2023, at the age of 72 years. 

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 41 years, Robin (Turk), children Doug (wife Brianna), Tanner and Leah (husband Mike Sabin), his granddaughter Cameran Rose Sabin, and his sister Susan Dinneen, as well as many nieces and nephews. He will also be dearly missed by countless friends in the community and beyond. 

Scott was a born athlete and family man. He received his masters +30 from Bridgewater State University while working in the Newton Schools, raising his family, and coaching. Scott coached Needham Youth Soccer and YMCA and St. Joseph basketball leagues, helping to spread his love of sports and appreciation for sportsmanship. He worked as a Physical Education teacher in Newton for 35 years before retiring in 2008. 

Ever the athlete, Scott kept active in his retirement by fishing, hiking, and golfing – often with his lifelong partner, teammate, and co-captain Robin by his side. The two of them supported each other in all things. 

He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him for his infectious laughter, dedication to Boston sports teams (a love/hate relationship), and his willingness to help anyone and everyone whether that meant manning the grill at family parties, lending a hand to paint your house, chopping wood from a downed tree, hanging shelves, and so much more. 

He prioritized family and friends-who-are-family above all, and in that same spirit, a celebration of life will be held privately on April 23. If you would like to honor his memory, grab a drink with a friend, invite your crew for a cookout, or cheer your loudest for the Bruins this playoff season. It’s what Scott would have wanted for us all. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Scott Davis Tanner, please visit our floral store.