Tammy Ellis Hamlett

Tammy Ellis Hamlett, 65, of Durham, North Carolina, unexpectedly passed away on March 22, 2026, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on February 7, 1961, in Durham, Tammy was the beloved daughter of the late Marion Mose Ellis and the late Billie Jean Ellis. A lifelong resident of the community she loved and called home, Tammy attended Northern High School during her early years. She is remembered for her dedicated work with the Durham County District Court Judges and her later service with GTE Telecommunications.

Tammy's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Amanda Greene Riley, son in law, Chris Riley, and to her son, Richard Brandon Hamlett, and his partner Brittany Tate. Her heart truly belonged to her six grandchildren—Jaylin, Camden, Brooklyn, Carmine, Kennedy, and Carter—who were the light of her life. Whether she was soaking up the sun at the beach or spending quality time with her family and closest friends, Tammy was happiest when surrounded by those she loved. She possessed a rare gift for friendship, maintaining deep and meaningful connections with many who became like family over the years.

A celebration of Tammy's life will be held Sunday, April 12th at 2:00 PM at First Pentecostal Church, located at 2008 Carver St. Durham, NC. Family and friends are invited to gather and share memories of a woman whose kindness and vibrant spirit touched so many.

Tammy's presence will be profoundly missed, but her legacy of love, laughter, and devotion will forever live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind. We find comfort in knowing she is at peace, and her memory will remain a guiding light for her children and grandchildren for generations to come.