SKOWHEGAN – Debora Tanner was honored Sunday as Mother of the Year by the 741-member Skowhegan-Madison Elks Lodge on Silver Street.

“Debora has devoted her entire life to helping others, whether it’s at school, at church or at home,” said Exalted Ruler and lodge president Julie A. Washburn. “We are very proud to recognize her for her kindness and dedication.”

Mrs. Tanner was presented a bouquet of roses, sash and an engraved vase from Washburn and a tiara from 2007 Elks Mother of the Year Leslie O. Korhonen of Madison.

Tanner has taught at Skowhegan Area Middle School for the past 23 years and is director of the music program and Vacation Bible School at Skowhegan Federated Church.

Tanner said she was “surprised and overwhelmed by the honor. I know (Rev. Mark Tanner, her husband) has received many awards in the past, but I never expected this.”
The couple has five children: Kaley, 17; Alyson, 23; Joshua, 19; James, 11; and Luke, 11.