Athens - Funeral services for Steve Tackett, 72, of Athens, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at Hannigan Smith Funeral Home. A visitation will be held from 1-2:00 p.m. prior to the service. He will be laid to rest during a private ceremony at Oaklawn Memorial Park.

Mr. Tackett passed away peacefully in his home on November 5, 2025.

James Stephen Tackett was born on September 26, 1953, in Athens, Texas, to Wyndell and Willetta (Cowan) Tackett. He graduated from LaPoynor High School in 1972 and worked as a truck driver for over 30 years. Steve also spent many years working for the Murchison family in Athens. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, building model cars, and doing anything that required mechanical and technical skills. Known for his ability to fix anything, Steve loved working with his hands. He was a caretaker to many, independent, and had a youthful spirit. His grandchildren meant the world to him, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Kalene Tackett; his daughter, Brandi Wisinger; and his sisters, Lori Watkins and DiAnn Roberts.

Survivors include his wife, Diann Tackett of Athens; his daughter, Shannon Tackett of Athens; his step-children, Loyd Smith of Athens and Ashley Miller and husband Jason of Palestine; his brother, Lee Tackett and wife Kim of Athens; his grandchildren, Nichole Dublin and husband Brent, Deven Davis, Emma Wisinger, and Adain Wisinger; and his step-grandchildren, Kylie Miller, Wyatt Miller, and Quincy Miller.

Honorary pallbearers will be Jason Miller, Brent Dublin, Wyatt Miller, Cutter Justice, Deven Davis, and Joey Paup.

The family is eternally grateful to the care and love from Steve's caregivers, and a very special thank you to Loyd Smith and Ashley Miller for their love, Kindness and selfless dedication to Steve's final time on earth.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Hannigan Smith Funeral Home family.