Warner Riley Tarkington

THE GREATEST GENERATION

Warner R. Tarkington, our sweet husband, Dad, Pawpaw & uncle went home to be with the Lord November 5, 2016, Lakewood, California. Born in Bee Branch, Arkansas and raised in Donaldson, Arkansas. He was 6/7 (a twin) of 12 children. Mother & Dad were married June 24, 1941 in Malvern , Arkansas. Celebrating their 75th wedding ANNIVERSARY this June.

Dad was drafted into the  Army Air Corp in 1941 - WWII. Stationed in England & France for 4 years. After the war they moved to  Long Beach, eventually ending up in Lakewood where they lived for 64 years. Dad worked at Texaco Oil Refinery for 25 years retiring in 1973.

He was a member of Truett Memorial Baptist Church for 50+ years. Was usher, maintenance and grounds, and started a food pantry ministry. He was also "Keeper of the Gate" at church, now he is probably " Keeper of the Pearly Gates". He loved his church and was never happier than when he was at church helping.

Dad is survived by wife Avalene, two daughters and sons-in-law, Sherry and David Barnes of Long Beach and LaWana and Roger Dunlap of Idaho. Also survived by niece Nancy Ling of Hemet and one sister Alice Vorsas of Tyler, Texas. Grandchildren: Dr. Robert & Dr. Leslie Barnes, Alison Barnes, Zak Barnes and Lt. Col.  (Ret.) Chris and Elena Dunlap. Three great grandchildren, Austin, Nicholas, and Emma Dunlap.  Preceded in death by grandson Matt Dunlap, 7 brothers and 3 sisters.

Viewing Friday 5 – 6p at Luyben Dilday Mortuary 5161 Arbor Rd., Long Beach 90808. Gravesite services Saturday, November 12 , 12pm at Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier, California.