Tammy McGuire

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tammy McGuire, who left us on April 26, 2025, at the age of 64. Born on January 1, 1961, at St. Joseph's Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, Tammy was a vibrant and adventurous soul whose love for family, music, teaching and food touched everyone she knew.

Tammy's greatest joy, however, came from being a mother and grandmother. After earning her associate's degree from City College of San Francisco and continuing her studies at San Francisco State University and California State University at Fresno, she returned to Phoenix, where she dedicated herself to raising her two daughters, April and Kristina. Later, as a grandmother, her heart swelled with love for her four grandchildren, Trevaughn, Kingston, Landon and Cambria, as well as her soon-to-be first great-grandson. She treasured every moment spent with them in Arizona and Utah.

A lifelong lover of 60's and 70's music, Tammy was especially fond of Elton John, whose songs provided the soundtrack to many of her fondest memories. Whether she was singing along to her favorite hits or simply enjoying the nostalgia of those decades, music was always at the heart of who she was. Tammy's dream of becoming a rock star was a reflection of her love for the creativity and energy that music brought into her life.

Tammy's adventurous spirit extended far beyond music. She was always ready for the next adventure, whether it was traveling with friends and family, riding on the back of a Harley Davidson, biking, or hiking the Grand Canyon. Her sense of exploration and her willingness to embrace new experiences made life exciting and meaningful for everyone around her.

Her professional journey began as a classroom volunteer in the Kyrene School District, eventually becoming a teacher's aide at Kyrene del Norte Elementary School. Tammy's desire to make a difference in the lives of children led her to return to school at Ottawa University, where she earned her bachelors degree in Elementary Education. Tammy inspired and mentored countless students as an outstanding teacher at Norte. She was a beloved figure in the classroom, always dedicated to helping children grow and learn.

Another of Tammy's passions was food; cooking and eating! She had a love for cooking and sharing meals with those in her life. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, laughter, and delicious (often spicy) food, where family and friends always felt welcome. She lovingly passed this interest down to her children and grandchildren.

Tammy will be forever remembered by family members and friends, and greatly missed.

"When I am gone, release me, let me go

I have so many things to see and do.

You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears,

Be happy that we had so many years.

I have you my love, you can only guess

How much you gave to me in happiness.

I thank you for the love you each have shown

But now it's time I traveled on alone.

So grieve awhile, for me, if grieve you must

Then let your grief be comforted by trust.

It's only for awhile that we must part

So bless the memories within your heart.

I won't be far away, for life goes on

So if you need me, call and I will come.

Though you can't see or touch me, I'll be near

And if you listen with your heart, you'll hear

All of my love around you soft and clear.

And then, when you must come this way alone

I'll greet you with a smile and say

"Welcome Home.""

-Author unknown