Steve Tanksley

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Steven Ray Tanksley, 63, of Baxter Springs KS, moved on from this earth in his home on Monday, April 7, 2025 at 8:05 p.m., after a long illness.

Steve was born to Florence (Johnson) and Ray Tanksley in Oklahoma City, OK on February 13, 1962. He graduated from Columbus High School in Columbus KS in 1970, and he briefly attended Missouri Southern State University to study psychology. He also received his EMT certification through Labette County to serve others. He then purchased property in the Baxter area to pursue his love of farming, as well as co-creating a lawn care business, Evergreen Lawn Care, which he worked for several years.

Steve was a man of adventure, ranging from having his pilot's license to riding motorcycles across the country. His love of music was a constant theme throughout his life, with performances including trombone in the high school band, guitar and vocals in his youth as part of the local band Illusion, and known affectionately as "Mr. Green Strings" in the local bluegrass community due to his lime green strings on his beloved stand-up bass. His favorite place was the mountains in Colorado Springs, where his last wishes of being laid to rest will be honored.

Steve is survived by his son, Chris Tanksley and wife Aryn Tanksley of Joplin, MO; daughter Miranda Weldon (Tanksley) and husband Mike Weldon of Wyandotte, OK; grandsons Hudson and Parker Tanksley; former wife Marybeth Tanksley of Joplin, MO; sister Sheila Bock and husband Rod Bock of Florida; sister Sharon Ashmore and husband Mike Ashmore of Indiana; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and close friends, including Teresa Sizemore and Sarah Sizemore of Baxter Springs, KS. 

He is preceded in death by his parents Florence and Ray Tanksley; niece Stephanie Richards; several aunts, uncles, and close friends to greet him on his next journey.

A memorial service will be held at a later date to honor the memory of Steve.