Hi there! We are the Tanner family — Bryan and Lisa, and our twelve children, ranging from twenty-four years old down to a toddler. Below is a quick introduction to each member of the family — the way we'd introduce them in person: plainly, and with a little pride.
The Family Roll
14 entriesBryan is the leader of the Tanner tribe. He spends his days helping the other staff members and the residents here at Missionary Acres.
Lisa left a teaching career to homeschool the blessings God has given the family. She's also a freelance writer and virtual assistant, helping busy moms carve out time for home businesses of their own.
Our oldest blessing, Jayme recently graduated from College of the Ozarks with a degree in graphic design and computer art. She's currently living with us while she builds her freelance design business.
God made Owen a little different than many people. He's missing a portion of his 15th chromosome, which means he has Angelman Syndrome. Though Owen learned to walk at age 7, he doesn't have the balance or endurance to stay upright for long periods, so you'll often find him in his wheelchair. Owen is nonverbal — you'll get a big grin, but not a "hello."
Jeffrey is a hard worker with a keen eye for noticing what must be done. He loves building with LEGOs, playing board games, and puzzles, and feels like full-time service will be in his future.
Ellie is creative — crafts, coloring, and knitting hats. And beef jerky. No list of Ellie's favorites would be complete without mentioning that.
Sydney loves helping people. She has a heart for others and is kind to everyone she meets — playing outside with the family, blowing bubbles, and drawing.
Simon has lots of energy to run off each day. He enjoys active games, audiobooks, and board games.
Brynna loves books — listening to stories, drawing her own pictures to go with them, coloring, and writing songs praising the Lord.
Bryson loves playing outside with his siblings. He enjoys telling stories, making up his own games, and working on his drawing skills.
Tyler has lots of energy and loves anything with wheels. He's got quite an imagination and enjoys telling stories.
Ezra ("Ezzie") loves being outside and trying to keep up with his older siblings. He has a big heart and spends lots of time coloring, cutting, and gluing to create unique pieces of art.
Sally loves being around people! She was born without enamel on her front teeth, so if you notice her smile is a little toothless, that's why — we're praying her adult teeth come in normally.
Baby #12 arrived in February of 2025. Marcus has quickly captured everyone's hearts and is a definite blessing to our family.
Curious how we got here?
Read the story of our call to Missionary Acres — a decade in the making.