Funeral Services for Willie D. Tanks were held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 12 p.m. at John the Baptist Missionary Baptist Church, 12800 County Rd 9, Lisman, Alabama with Pastor Joe Johnson, officiating. Interment, Fairfield C.M.E. Church Cemetery, 12976 County Road 9, Lisman, Alabama.

Willie D. Tanks, age 75, entered eternal rest on Sunday, August 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at University Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi.

Born on November 13, 1949, Willie D. was the beloved son of the late Jerry Tanks and Mae Ola Chaney Tanks. He was raised in Halsell, Alabama, where he joined John the Baptist Church and attended Choctaw Training School. Willie D. worked in the family logging business during his early years, demonstrating a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility. After a tragic accident, his resilience shone through. Once recovered, he continued serving his community through his own lawn care business, tending to the yards of families in the surrounding area. Known as the neighborhood's "Mr. Fix-It," Willie D. had a gift for repairing electronics and small engines—if it needed fixing, he was the one to call.

He also had a lifelong love for music and all things electronic. One of his greatest joys was connecting with others through his Citizen Band radios. Across the airwaves, he was known as the infamous "Iron Eagle"—a name that stood for: "Strength, Freedom, Connection, Legacy."

Willie D. was united in marriage to Olester Ruffin Tanks, his loving and devoted wife for 56 years. Their home was more than just a place to live—it was a place filled with love, laughter, and warmth. Sunday dinners were a cherished tradition, often shared with family gathered around the table or enjoying time together on the porch. Children found joy playing in the yard, while elders shared stories on the porch, children played, conversations flowed, and love was always present.

He was affectionately called "Dee" by many of his family and friends, a nickname that evolved over time. As grandchildren came along, "Dee" became "Granddaddy," and Olester, whom he lovingly called "Baby, became "BayBay"—a name the children naturally adopted and cherished. Together, Granddaddy and BayBay became beloved figures in the lives of many children. Their home was a sanctuary where every child wanted to be.

Willie D. was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Mae Ola Tanks; his brothers, Jerry Tanks Jr., Sam Tanks, Jimmy Tanks, Clarence Tanks, and Thomas Tanks; his sister, Shirley Tanks Moore; and his beloved god-daughter, Priscilla DuBose.

He leaves to cherish his memory: His devoted wife, Olester Ruffin Tanks; his sister, Olivia Tanks and sister-in-law, Mary Lee Tanks (Halsell, AL) and one aunt, Viola Jackson (Lisman, AL); his god-daughter, Tywanda Tanks George (Houston, TX) and god-son, Devin Ruffin (Yantley, AL); a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who loved and respected him dearly.

Willie D. Tanks will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his giving heart, his skilled hands, and his legendary CB handle. His legacy will live on in the stories, laughter, and love he leaves behind. Mr. Willie D. Tanks will be remembered as a man who gave of himself fully—with his time, his talents, and his heart. His life  was a testament to faith, perseverance, and love. Though his earthly journey has ended, his legacy will live on  through the many lives he impacted.