John "Big T" Tarver was born on December 7, 1952, to the late Hosea Tarver and Mary Frances Tarver. on October 25, 2026, at the age of 73, Big T peacefully departed this life at the Arboretum of Winnie Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, unforgettable memories, and a legacy that will continue for generations.

Services are Saturday, Nov. 07, 2026, at First Baptist Church Anahuac 405 Magnolia St. Anahuac, TX. Visitation will begin at 10AM until Funeral at 11AM. Interment will be in Martha Godfrey Cemetery Double Bayou, TX.

Big T was a hardworking man who believed in enjoying life, helping others and bringing people together. He spent many years working cattle at Jackson Ranch, where he developed a strong work ethic and a love for the outdoors. He later dedicated many years of service to Chambers County Road and Bridge, retiring on June 30, 2019. Throughout his life, he also served as a reserved deputy and was a proud member of Mobile Eagle Masonic Lodge No. 537. Big T was no stranger to bringing people together for a good time. As the operator of Double Bayou Dance Hall, he created a place where friends and neighbors could gather, enjoy music, dance, laugh, and make lasting memories.

But if there was one thing Big T was especially known for, it was his love for barbecue! Whether he was standing over a smoking pit, preparing for a cook-off, or feeding a crowd, he took pride in every meal he prepared. His many trophies reflected his passion, talent, and dedication to barbecue. Among his proudest accomplishments was being named Go Texan Best BBQ Runner-upat the 1998 Houston Livestock show and Rodeo's 25th Annual World's Championship Bar-B-Que Contest.

Big T was also the first members of the Chambers County Cook Team, helping prepare meals for county events and catering safety meetings during the Christmas season. Cooking was more than a hobby for him; it was his way of showing love, building friendships, and making sure nobody left hungry. For 33 years, Big T shared his life, love, laughter and countless memories with his beloved wife, Linda Haskin-Tarver. Together, they experienced life's joys, challenges, and special moments, building a bond filled with memories that will forever be treasured.

Family was a big part of Big T's world, and he was blessed with a crew that gave him plenty of reasons to laugh, smile, and probably shake his head a time or two! His love and memories will live on through his children: Tonya Corner (Bruce), Lydia King (Ray), John Tarver (Tiffany), Leslie Haskin, Lavangeline Haskin, Nekeisha Coates (James), and Lashebia Raymond (Harry).

His family circle was made even bigger with his bonus children: Kimberly Blue, Margo Thomas, Phillip Thomas, and Tamekia Cotright. And, of course, we cannot forget his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought even more joy, laughter, and special memories into his life.

Big T also leaves behind his loving sisters, Linda Speights (Gilbert), Georgia Tarver, and Mary Alice Medlock; his brothers, Jimmy Tarver and John Chris Devore; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, fellow Masons, and countless friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Hosea Tarver and Mary Frances Tarver; his sisters, Carolyn Tarver and Sharon Tarver; his brother, Timothy Lyons; his infant son, John Tarver Jr; and his granddaughter, Brittany Johnson.

Big T had a personality that was truly his own. He could make you laugh, tell you exactly what was on his mind, and leave you with a story worth repeating.

Although Big T is no longer physically with us, his legacy lives on in every family gathering, every shared story, every burst of laughter, and every barbecue pit fired up in his honor.

He leaves behind more than memories. He leaves behind a family to carry on his traditions, a community touched by his generosity, and a lifetime of love that death can never take away.

Big T, your work here is done, but your fire will never go out. Rest well, and know that your legacy will continue to burn bright.

Proctor's Mortuary - Anahuac, is in charge of final arrangements, 518 Miller St. Anahuac, TX. 77514 (409) 267-3122. The guest book can be signed; words of comfort and condolences for the family can be left at www.proctorsmortuary.com.