Submitted information and photos:
On Thursday, July 31st, the Cobb Library Foundation hosted a heartfelt tree dedication ceremony at the Sewell Mill Library & Cultural Center to honor the life and memory of Lee Ann Tanks. A Cherokee Brave Dogwood was planted in her name, a living tribute to a woman remembered for her unwavering faith, deep love for her family, and quiet, enduring service to the Cobb community.
Lee Ann (September 14, 1968 – June 7, 2025) spent over 24 years in public safety, serving as both a 911 dispatcher and a Fire Investigator Technician in the Fire Marshal’s Office. She was known for her strong but gentle spirit, and for a life guided by compassion, commitment, and kindness.
Among her greatest joys was being a mother to her son, U.S. Marine Justin Bradley Jean. Lee Ann was endlessly proud of him and poured her heart into raising him with faith and love.
Later in life, she married her soulmate, William “Bill” Tanks, City Manager of Mableton, GA– with her dearest friend Carla at her side as maid of honor. Bill, a dedicated member of the Cobb Library Foundation, became not only her loving husband and best friend, but a proud and caring bonus dad to Justin. Through their union, Lee Ann also gained three beloved bonus children: Eboni, Phillip (Catherine), and Naomi Tanks. Together, they built a life full of laughter, love, and cherished memories.
“Lee Ann was the kind of person who made everyone feel seen, supported, and loved,” said Sandra Morris, Executive Director of the Cobb Library Foundation. “She and Bill were longtime supporters of the Foundation, and it’s an honor to recognize her in a way that reflects the warmth, strength, and kindness she shared with others. Planting this tree is a lasting tribute to her legacy.”
To honor her as she lived—and as she wished to be remembered—the Cobb Library Foundation planted a tree in her name. The Cherokee Brave Dogwood, symbolic of strength, courage, and grace, now grows in the heart of the Sewell Mill Library grounds, offering a peaceful space for reflection and remembrance.
A touching moment during the ceremony came when Sandra Morris, Executive Director of the Cobb Library Foundation, shared an original poem written in Lee Ann’s memory:
YOU
Left us too soon, but you’re ever-present,
Every day.
Always in our hearts,
Never to be forgotten.
Now rest in peace knowing that we’reThinking of you.
And thankful to have known you.
Not a person in the world like you!!Knowing you made a difference,
Sweet friend.
The ceremony brought together family, friends, and library staff to celebrate her legacy. Through the growth of this tree, her spirit and values will continue to thrive in the very community she loved.
To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory of Lee Ann Tanks, please visit the West Cobb Funeral Home flower store.
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