Danville……Edward "Dale" Tanksley, age 81 of Danville passed away Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Roman Eagle Health and Rehab.

Born July 9, 1944 in Danville, he was a son of the late Ernest Garland Tanksley and Melba Gosney Tanksley. He was predeceased by one brother, Garland Reid Tanksley. Mr. Tanksley graduated from Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science in 1967 and worked for many years as a licensed funeral director. He was also a Veteran of the Virginia National Guard and retired after 28 years as a Major. Later in life Dale was self-employed for Blackwood Properties of Dan River Region, Inc. until his health began to decline.  He was a member of Moffett Memorial Baptist Church.

He is survived by two sons, Brian Tanksley of Halifax and Brandon Tanksley and wife, Allison of Chatham; four grandchildren, Parker Tanksley, Spencer Tanksley, Hallie Tanksley and Amber Cook; and a sister-in-law, Pat Tanksley of Danville.

Graveside services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at Highland Burial Park by Rev. Drew Tanksley.  Military Honors by American Legion Dan River Post 1097.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Linda Wilborne.

Colbert-Moran Funeral Home, Gretna is assisting the family.  Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.colbertmoran.com.