Alliance, OH — The Alliance community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Julian David Tanner, a 16-year-old boy whose strength, grace, and unwavering faith carried him through a courageous 15-month battle with brain cancer. Julian passed away on October 18, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a powerful legacy of hope and quiet bravery far beyond his years.
Born on October 8, 2009, Julian was a light to everyone who knew him. Described as humble, kind, and deeply loving, Julian had a spirit that touched hearts wherever he went. Though his life was far too short, it was filled with meaning and the kind of love that endures.
He is survived by his devoted mother, Melissa Tanner of Alliance, and father, Steven Tanner of Massillon; his siblings, Isabella Tanner, Skyler Tanner, and Christian Breckenridge; and his grandmother, Vickie Blouir. Also mourning his loss is his cherished French bulldog, “Chubb,” and “Gunner,” the pup who first inspired Julian’s love for the breed.
Julian was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents and paternal grandfather, now reunited with him in peace.
His final days were marked by overwhelming support from the community and the care of compassionate organizations. Akron Children’s Hospital offered Julian the tender medical care he needed. Wishes Can Happen made one of his dreams come true when he met his football hero, Nick Chubb of the Cleveland Browns, with the help of News-Talk 1480 WHBC and Mix94.1. Angelworks helped create a joyful celebration of life for Julian, and three selfless women — Adrian Bailey, Vanessa Evans, and Madelyn Sweeney — gave their love and care to him and his family in ways words cannot express.
In one of the most profound moments of his journey, after hearing the devastating words that there was nothing more doctors could do, Julian comforted his mother through her tears with a simple but powerful truth:
“It’s OK, Mom, I’ll be with Jesus.”
That deep faith was affirmed when Pastor Ed Carter of Marlboro Christian Church baptized Julian last year — a moment his family will treasure forever.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, October 26, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Cassaday-Turkle-Christian Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow on Monday, October 27, at 11:00 a.m., also at the funeral home.
In the midst of unimaginable grief, Julian’s family has expressed deep gratitude to the countless people who stood beside them during this journey — friends, strangers, medical professionals, and prayer warriors.
Julian’s memory will live on in every act of kindness, every quiet moment of faith, and every heart that chooses hope in the face of sorrow. His light may have dimmed on Earth, but it shines brighter than ever in the heavens.
May his gentle soul rest in peace.