William Thomas Lanning, age 69, of Sylva passed away at his home Thursday, January 8, 2015. Mr. Lanning was born September 12, 1945 in Jackson County to the late Samuel and Hannah (Phillips) Lanning.
He is survived by his wife of 13 years, Jean Askew Lanning, his daughter, Kristy Lanning of Alabama, two sons; Tommy Lanning of Alabama and Scotty Trantham of Robbinsville, three step-daughters; Lisa Davidson of Kentucky, Janet Buddington of Virginia and Barbara Pemberton of Florida and one step-son, Charles Davidson of Texas. Also surviving are his 3 brothers; Lester (Lillie) Lanning, George (Mary) Lanning, both of Waynesville, and Ned (Dorothy) Lanning of Marion, and 3 sisters; Thelma Hensley of Waynesville, Barbara (Tal) Golden of Tuckasegee, and Brenda James of Waynesville. 25 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren also survive.
A Memorial Service will be held 2:00 PM Saturday January 17 at New Savannah Baptist Church with the Revs. Ray Knowles and Phillip Wyatt officiating.