Long time resident and local attorney
Biography
Jim Tanner was born in 1946 to Elmo and Jean Tanner. Jean’s family moved to Claremore in 1903. Her grandparents built Ward Rooms, which still stands on the northwest corner of Will Rogers Boulevard and Muskogee. Jean’s mother, Mrs. Maude DuPriest, was a long time educator in Claremore. Jean was the librarian at OMA and taught dancing in Claremore for many years. Elmo’s family moved to Claremore in 1910. Elmo was a brick layer and served in the Seabees in WWII. He later served as City Clerk and Mayor of Claremore. Jim has two younger sisters, Mary & Nancy.
Jim attended public school in Claremore until he transferred to Oklahoma Military Academy his Junior year. He decided to go to OMA because he wanted to be in the band. He learned many life skills and held the position of Commander of the Day Students when he was a Sophomore in college. He finished his Associate Degree in 1967 and then went to the University of Oklahoma for his undergraduate degree. He got his juris doctorate from OU in 1973. He has practiced law in Claremore ever since and maintains his practice in a house on Will Rogers Boulevard that belonged to his great aunt and uncle.
Jim has two daughters. He and his wife Cindy always have at least one cat or more. Jim loves his antique cars and he loves playing in bands. He had a 12 piece dance band for 15 years and has played trombone and baritone in the Claremore Civic band since the early 70s.
Jim helped Donna Grabow start Safenet Services, was President of the Board for over 20 years and was instrumental in Safenet building the Donald W. Reynolds Family Center, the offices and shelter for women and children victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Rogers and Mayes counties. He has also served many years on the Board of Directors of Grand Lake Mental Health and is currently its President. Jim loves history, has strong family ties to the community and has always tried to make Claremore a better place.