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Tammy Waddell Obituary
Tammy served the children and community of Forsyth County for thirty years as a paraprofessional and elementary teacher in Forsyth County Schools. She had a passion for literacy and believed that every child deserved an opportunity to learn. She was a National Board Certified Teacher and in 2003 was recognized as the Forsyth County Schools Elementary Teacher of the Year. She left a legacy in the hallways of Sawnee Elementary & Primary Schools, Cumming Elementary School and Haw Creek Elementary School. Those around her recognized Tammy by her generosity, selflessness and unconditional love. Though her achievements and accolades are numerous, none are greater than the many lives that she changed over the course of her three decades in education.
Additionally, Tammy was a member of the Rainbow Girls, a division of the Masons, and a member of the Forsyth County Volunteer Fire Department Station Four Ladies Auxiliary.
Tammy loved to read, visit the Great Smokey Mountains and spend time with her grandchildren. Tammy was adored by both her students and colleagues; however, she was loved by none more than her friends and family. She will be missed dearly.
Tammy is survived by her beloved husband of 41 years, Mike; two sons, BJ (Lori) and Kevin (Jackie); grandchildren, Caroline & Lily Kate, Ansley & Ryder; mother, Barbara Meadows; brother, Joey (Teenna) Meadows; honorary son, Adam Norrell; father-in-law, Robert Waddell; brothers-in-law, Rickey (Jean) Waddell, Billy (Melissa) Waddell; sister-in-law, Patsy (Frankie) Dodd; nephews, Michael (Chelsea) Meadows, Caleb Waddell, Jason Dodd, Randy Dodd; nieces, Kristina (Mark) Esposito, April (Kevin) Rogers, Brandy Meadows, Robin Waddell, Hannah Waddell, Kasey (Dalton) Keys, Emily Waddell; and several great nieces and nephews. A celebration for Tammy's life will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 13 at McDonald & Son Funeral Home.
Visitation will take place from 4-8 p.m. on Monday, June 11th, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. on Tuesday, June 12th, and 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. on Wednesday, June 13th at McDonald Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please bring backpacks filled with school supplies to honor Tammy's passion for children in need or make a donation in memory of Tammy Waddell to
Project Connect
c/o Forsyth Central High School
131 Almon C. Hill Drive
Cumming, GA 30040
Condolences may be expressed at www.mcdonaldandson.com.
McDonald and Son Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
Sign the guest book at forsythnews.com
Forsyth County News
June 13th, 2018
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Tammy Waddell
Ermal Gough
February 17, 2024
Thank you for the love and compassion you had for your students. You will truly be miss
Rest in peace
Emma Thomas
December 8, 2019
As her former student, I can honestly say that she has changed my life for the better. She knew her students like the very best of teachers and people should. She was an amazing woman.
Benjamin P
November 19, 2019
I am so sorry for your loss. I never met Tammy, but the way she asked to have the bookbags in place of flowers is the most beautiful thing I've seen in a long while. The work of a true educator. May she rest in peace, and God bless your family during this difficult time.
wendy barwood
June 9, 2019
I do not know this kind and generous person, but with all the negativity coming out of schools today, I am sending this lady a big warm hug to one who exemplified the true meaning of "teacher." RIP
Cathy
June 8, 2019
May you Rest In Peace Tammy Waddell......So many will miss you!
Joan Millican
June 5, 2019
I read Tammys story and was stunned by the photo of all those backpacks. In Tammys memory, I will donate a full backpack to Maggies Place Family resource centre in Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada in memory of and in gratitude to the wonderful teachers in my childrens lives over the last 17 years as well as the special teachers Ive had over 4 decades and most importantly in memory of Tammy. My sincere condolences at this difficult time.
Shawnie Call
June 5, 2019
I read her story, amazing.
Bernadine Ruiz
June 4, 2019
I am a teacher. that is a gift. I read Ms Tammy's story today on Facebook. I would like to offer her family and friends who loved her - and saw that she loved those she served and may never meet now that she has passed away. May the Holy Spirit comfort each of your hearts who loved and will miss her! She has made an impact and the one to put it out FAceback Thank you - Bernadine Ruiz B.A.
Leslie T.
June 4, 2019
I read Tammy's story on Facebook. God bless Tammy and her family.
Shonta Soito
June 4, 2019
I didn't know Tammy read her story on Facebook. That is a blessing for her to think of other people in her sickness
Roger
June 4, 2019
Thank a teacher today. They give so much to so many.
Gabriel Martin
June 4, 2019
God Bless you Wonderful Teacher!
Andrea
June 4, 2019
I read Tammy's story on social media. May God bless her for caring for students. RIP Tammy.
Kathryn DAngelo
June 4, 2019
I dont know Tammy, but I just read her story on Facebook & what an amazing person she was. She truly cared for her students, we need more people like her. My condolences to her family & friends.
Dennis Pence
June 4, 2019
Ms. Waddell is the true essence of a teacher - and a wonderful human being. God bless her and keep her safe in His arms. I hope her students carry this memory for the rest of their lives. We need more teachers like this - and more people like her in the world. Condolences to the family - and to her students
Karen Grant
June 4, 2019
I have read her story, a true teacher till the end. I lost my mom in March. I miss her so much. Prayer to the everyone remember. Keep her in your heart and remember her loving & giving nature
Cathy Chasse
June 3, 2019
I didnt know Tammy but I read her story on Facebook and felt compelled to write a few words.
What a wonderful last gesture to the schoolchildren she taught and those she wont have the chance to.
RIP Tammy
Joni Haas
June 3, 2019
What a lovely human. Heaven has gained another beautiful soul.
Bonnie Hughes
June 2, 2019
I just read a story about Tammy on Facebook, her legacy as a woman and a teacher. Her dying wish touched my heart in her caring for children and their learning right to the end of her life. This world needs more people like Tammy and I think her life held great meaning that will be carried on through others ☮
Cristina Bascuas
September 13, 2018
I was very moved by her generous last wish. My condolences to her entire beautiful family. Her love and kindness will light your way.
B C
July 3, 2018
To the family of this amazing Woman the story was published in my local hometown community newspaper and it caught my attention also brought tears to my eyes I know Mrs. Waddell got her wings as she took that flight may she rest in paradise.
Laeticia Elise
July 2, 2018
What a beautiful woman.
Barbara McFee
June 30, 2018
What a legacy this wonderful woman left!!! Tammy touched my heart reading her story. RIP in the arms of the Lord.
Sandra Smith
June 30, 2018
I just read the story of the backpacks. We a great way to honor an educator and do something meangful for the community. My eyes a watering after seen the inside picture of the church.
Deliah Gravitt
June 30, 2018
I taught with Tammy when she was still a kindergarten para pro at Sawnee Elementary. I have such fond memories of watching her with the students. She had such a kind way with everyone. I remember sitting outside on my porch just talking about her children, school and our futures. I had not seen her in years and was shocked to hear of her passing. She had a goal in life and Im so glad she leaves such a legacy and big shoes to fill for all of us to love one another. I pray that your family finds strength and comfort in a life well lived.
Lakisha Peters
June 29, 2018
Prayers and condolences to the family of the teacher!
June 29, 2018
My heartfelt condolences and prayers for your family. May God provide comfort and strength during this most challenging time. I am truly sorry for your loss. With Love
June 29, 2018
My heartfelt condolences and prayers for your family. May God provide comfort and strength during this most challenging time. I am truly sorry for your loss. With Love
Lisa Kivett
June 29, 2018
I learned of Tammys passing and her legacy when the photo of backpacks filled with school supplies made its way to me on Facebook. I am so sorry that Tammys family and friends have had to say goodbye so soon, particularly her grandchildren, but what a tribute and statement she made with her final request. A piece of Tammys spirit will be back in school next fall with each backpack and each student. If I could, Id embroider each backpack or attach a key fob that reminds each child that Tammy is with them! Much peace to your family.
Genevieve Graverson
June 28, 2018
...saw Tammy Waddell request for backpacks and school supplies via. facebook. Teachers are special...they are forever in our thoughts...forever in our hearts. May God grant everyone Peace of Heart during this difficult time. From a former pre-school teacher (Nativity BVM School, Biloxi, MS).
Jacqueline Carswell
June 28, 2018
Condolences to Tammy's family and friends. Her kindness truly is an inspiration and in death, taught us a lesson in humanity and empathy for others. Praying for healing for her family and compassion for one another.
DIANNE
June 28, 2018
Hi my name is Dianne I live in Oak Harbor WA and work in the schools. In got a video of her final wish to help children with backpacks. I wanted her friends and family to know what she did is priceless. Because of her there will be more of us that ask for this for our final wish. Im sure she made sure she made a diffence in alot of peoples lifes but not only in Georgia but now miles away in Oak Harbor WA. Thank you for who ever made the Video to keep her wish alive.Dianne
Norma Martinez
June 28, 2018
What an inspiration. May her family have solace in her incredible gift to her students and the community. RIP Tammy.
Norma Martinez, fellow educator from Texas.
Tara Hustad
June 27, 2018
Rest in peace, Tammy. From a fellow teacher from the state of PA. I WILL pass this on in your name. My family will be donating supplies this fall for students in need. God bless your family, friends, and fellow teachers and students that must be missing such a big part of their hearts. God bless!
Angela Waddell Goodin
June 27, 2018
I'm sorry for your lost. She sounds like a wonderful Lady.
stephanie goodwin
June 27, 2018
What a wonderful heart this teacher had!!. Tammy will forever be blessed!!
Manal Nasira
June 27, 2018
I personally dont know her but her action is very selfless.
May god bless her and may her body rest in peace
She has touched many lives including mine
YOU'LL BE MISSED TAMMY WADDELLTO
Lisa Stevens
June 26, 2018
I've never met Tammy but saw her incredible story and her wish to have backpacks donated instead of flowers. She was an angel on earth to all the student lives she touched. Now with her final act of love and dedication to her students, she is thier angel in heaven. This made my heart happy and sad all in one, i know she was a jewel to all who knew her. Sending my deepest condolences to her Family and friends. Rest in paradise good and faithful servant.
Missy Miles
June 26, 2018
I didn't know her personally, but what a legacy she has left. As a teacher myself, the backpacks are so sweet. Those kiddos are blessed!
Nancy LG
June 26, 2018
I heard about Tammy Waddell's final wish before her death, and thought what a selfless act. Backpacks for students will live on forever. I have never met her, but I am a fellow teacher. Tammy will live in all of us educators, as we try to improve students' education. Thank-you for your dedication.
Linda Ferrigno
June 26, 2018
Never in my life have I been touched so profoundly by the obituary of someone I never had the honor of meeting on earth. I will carry her inspiration in my heart and will look for Tammy in heaven! What a GREAT person!
Jeanette
June 26, 2018
Thank you for your tired less
love and commitment to our children. Your kindness and generosity has touched all of us.
I Kristine
June 26, 2018
I didn't know you, but love your story and all you represent... your wish and now, legacy will go on for sure... may you rest in paradise.
Tonya Stage
June 26, 2018
I never met Mrs. Waddell but you legacy will live on forever for your kindness towards the children of your community. I think you might have started a trend. What a celebration of life!!!!!!!!!!
Evangelist Annette Green Caldwell
June 26, 2018
Her Memory will live on as a Leagecy of what she did on Earth as a teacher and through the Children receiving the Back Packs. May God Bless the world with More Teachers like her.
Beth Danley
June 26, 2018
As a teacher I am inspired by the love and kindness of this unknown woman. She was born to teach. She still is.
Doris Stewart
June 25, 2018
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Rhonda Gonzales
June 25, 2018
I don't know her but she sounds like a good person and a good teacher I love that she wanted backpacks and supplies instead of flowers for her funeral may she rest in peace
Julie Parish
June 25, 2018
Ms. Waddell was my daughter's (Katelyn) 5th grade teacher during the 2016-2017 school year. We are so sorry to hear of her battle with cancer and her ultimate passing. She will truly be missed. We were so happy to hear of her desire for backpacks. What a great way to help out the community while remaining a 'teacher until the end'.
Leslie G
June 25, 2018
I have never met Mrs. Waddell, but her kind gesture reaffirms what a wonderful teacher and human being she actually was. I give condolences to her family and friends. She will be missed by all: family, friends, colleagues, students, former students and community. She was a true blessing and mentor to all teachers; those with whom she worked, and those whom have only read of her. May she Rest In Peace.
Q. Fernandes
June 25, 2018
I never had the honor of meeting Tammy either. However, i did read about her thoughtfulness and kindness. She really was "a teacher to the end."In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Serena Dufor
June 25, 2018
Thanks for loving your students! Rest in love.
Tania Cruz
June 25, 2018
I never had the honor of meeting Tammy. However, I did read about her incredibly compassionate gesture. I am sure her colleagues and all the students who crossed paths with her are better people for having known her. She was a quiet, undung hero. My thoughts are with all who loved her.
Tracy
June 25, 2018
I saw an article about Mrs. Waddell here in Tulsa, OK. I just wanted to pass my sincerest condolences. From one educator family to another, our thoughts and prayers are with those left behind.
Seeing her final wishes and comments from students just reaffirms my thoughts that the world was a much better place with her in it. We should all be so lucky to have had a Mrs. Waddell in our lives.
Jermaine Smith
June 25, 2018
A true public servant. Thank you Tammy Waddell.
Cindy Geraghty
June 14, 2018
My condolences and prayers to the family and I just wanted to let them know that Tammy did make a difference in the lives of my children, Connor and Keelan during their years at Sawnee Elementary. May you find comfort and peace in the days ahead.
Anna Karazulas
June 13, 2018
Its was sad to know shes gone but Im glad she is better! I know we will all miss the best 5th grade teacher out there!!! Im so sorry and sending prayers to her family I was sad because she was hilarious. I cant imagine what her family is going through. I think that cancer is one of the worst things to have to face Im gonna miss you but I know we will meet again someday in the arms of god. Til then hold on tight it could be a while. In memory or Tammy Waddell love you!
Sharon Kidwell
June 13, 2018
Kevin, and family
So sorry to hear of your mothers passing. We send our most sincere condolences.
Our Thoughts and prayers will continue for you and your family.
The Kidwells Indiana.
June 13, 2018
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.You were the best 5th grade teacher
Cate Cuccinello
June 13, 2018
Mrs Waddell was the teacher next to me . Even not having her as a teacher she was so caring and loving. She pushed us to achieve all of our goals and to strive to become a better student. When I heard that Mrs.Waddell had cancer it broke my heart and the worst news she has passed away. :( To a teacher that was so caring , and loving may you Rest In Peace. Mrs . Waddell you are so truly loved.
Kennedy Attridge
June 13, 2018
Mrs. Waddell was my favorite teacher she made such an impact on me and taught me everything I loved to see her welcome us to class and always bring a smile even when her shoulder was hurting. She was so sweet to all her students and treated them all fairly. She made stations with yoga balls stools and ect. just so we would love to have fun in the class. In loving memory. You will be greatly missed!!
katelyn parish
June 13, 2018
she was my 5th grade teacher!! best teacher ive ever had!! she was always so happy and so sweet and im going to miss you so much!! i miss you
ken lenardo
June 13, 2018
She was teacher for 5th grade and she was the best teacher ever!! i love you mrs waddell and you will be missed!!
Kennedy Attridge
June 13, 2018
Our sincerest. condolences. Mrs. Waddell was an amazing teacher and had such an impact on her students. She was always so kind and patient and creative. She was one of Kennedys favorite teachers at Haw Creek, and she still talks about her all the time. We are so very sorry for your loss. She will be missed. Love, The Attridge Family
Andy Kalin
June 13, 2018
Very sorry for your loss Mike and family. Tammy's spirit and passion for children will live on in those that she touched on her journey.
Bethany Strickland
June 12, 2018
I am so sorry for your loss! Tammy was one of the first people that took me under her wing my first year teaching at Sawnee Elementary! I couldnt have asked for a better mentor and friend! Tammys entire family is in my thoughts and prayers!
Lynn Seay
June 12, 2018
Please accept my sincerest condolences for the loss of this lovely lady and passionate educator. I am blessed to have known and worked with Tammy. Much love and sympathy....
LAURIE MANSFELDT
June 12, 2018
Mike and family, I am so sorry for your loss of Tammy. My girls attended Sawnee, however Tammy was not their teacher. I volunteered several years at Sawnee and I would see Tammy in the halls with her sweet smile on her face. She was always friendly and polite. I will keep your family in my prayers.
Terry and Carol Marsh
June 12, 2018
It is a special joy to know someone who makes the world a better place just by being in it. Tammy was someone who did just that. She was always smiling and her warmth and happiness made you happy to be around her. There was a genuine love for people that rubbed off on others. She made you want to be better yourself and to share the happiness that she shared. There is a pain that is very real because she is gone. But there is a joy she leaves with those of us that knew her that makes us want to be better ourselves - to share the warmth and love that she shared and perhaps make the world around us better as well. For us, that is the gift she leaves behind, and what a powerful legacy that is!
Jane Grebe
June 11, 2018
Mike and family. My thoughts and prayers go out to each and every one of you. Tammy was a great friend and wonderful student teacher. I feel pleased that I was able to watch her with her first class. We enjoyed watching our boys grow up and become men. Charlie will always remember his first year of school with you as his kindergarten teacher. Working along side you as we taught and worked with new teachers at Sawnee was a great experience. You will be missed by all.
Jane Grebe
June 11, 2018
Prayers for Mrs. Waddell's family during this time. Mrs. Waddell taught my daughter last year and helped show her the love of Science and Social Studies. We are shocked and saddened, by this news. Prayers for the family during this time.
The Barrs Family
Charles Haldi
June 11, 2018
Mike:
I am so sorry to hear this awful news. Please know that you and your family will be in my prayers.
Charles
Rebecca Capes
June 11, 2018
Dear Mike,
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the passing of your wife. May your faith support you and cradle you during this most difficult time.
Becky Capes
L.W. McDonald and Son Funeral Home
June 13, 2018
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
marolyn mcgriff
June 11, 2018
Mike and Sons, So sorry about Tammy. We taught far apart at Sawnee, so we didn't see each other that much. I did have son, Kevin in Fifth Grade. Mike went with us when we took Fifth Grades to DC.; a trip never to forget! Tammy & Jane Grebe supported us because both sons and husbands were going. We made a memory which I will never forget.
Blessings to all the Waddell Family.
Marolyn McGriff
Teresa Herring
June 10, 2018
In loving memory of a wonderful person. Tammy, Ill always cherish the times we had together growing up on the same street, in high school, teaching students together at two of the same schools, and leading new teachers as they started at Sawnee. I also will never forget you coming to read to sweet Carolines class when I had her as a student. Your sweet family is always in my prayers. We will love you and miss you always.
Cathy Cathcart
June 10, 2018
Tammy was always such a sweet neighbor, and I loved her even more for the mom she was to my son, Adam, after we moved. I know she fought hard, but I also know she is in a better place now. My sympathies to her family, and you are all in my prayers.
Carol Ann Holbrooks
June 10, 2018
I remember the Waddells were good neighbors. So sorry for your lost Mike. Your family will be in my prayers.
Alan and Rene Seabokt
June 10, 2018
We are deeply sadden for the loss of Tammy. She was a delightful woman whom we admired . Her and mike were a couple that we are happy to say are our friends. Tammy was a great inspiration to our kids and they learned to love her as we did. May peace be with the family during this hard time. God be with you.
Lenora Lowe
June 9, 2018
Tammy was a kind, warm and loving lady. A lady in the true sense. I was blessed to work at Cumming Elementary with her. She made such a difference in so many student's lives. Her beautiful family is a direct reflection of her beauty and love. My deepest sympathies to her family. You are all in my prayers.
Cathy Fowler
June 9, 2018
I will always remember how beautifulTammy was on her wedding day! My family will always be blessed just from knowing her.She fought a good fight and stayed the course. She gained her wings this morning.praying for peace and comfort for Mike and your family.
Bacle and Cathy Fowler
Lynnette Bowles
June 9, 2018
Tammy was such a wonderful cousin to have. If something was going on she reached out to me via facebook, this is how we stayed in touch. When I was younger I remember that she seemed to always be smiling and happy, this why I always looked up to her. I know that she was a fighter and will be missed by so many people. My prayers are with all of you, I love you dearly.
Melodie & Kevin Overmyer
June 9, 2018
What a beautiful woman, mother, grandmother whom I met through my niece Jackie Waddell and have become more acquainted on social media. I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing how very very much she has loved her family through her posts. Rejoicing in heaven but sorrow on earth. Prayers go out to her family. Melodie Overmyer
Anna Doll
June 9, 2018
Tammy was an amazing teacher and she had a beautiful heart. She loved her family so much. Her life will go on through those lives she touched. My love and prayers for her family and friends as we grieve her loss. Theres a special place in heaven for her, with no pain or sorrow. Fly high, my sweet friend.
Jody Price
June 9, 2018
An amazing woman will be missed by so many. Much much love and prayers to Tammys family, she loved you all so very much. Xoxo
Rickey Waddell
June 9, 2018
What a wonderful Sister-in-Law, she was loved by so many, taught so many children in Elementary School.. now she is on the other side she is in no more pain. Missed here on this earth , but Happy for where she is now..Love my Sis...
Lynn Bump
June 9, 2018
I am so sorry for your loss. Tammy was a wonderful person. I feel blessed to have known her and had the opportunity to have worked with her. Her legacy will live on through all the lives she touched. God bless and comfort you all.
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