Tamara Sue O’Dowd

Tamera Sue O'Dowd, (Tammy) Born January 22, 1962, passed away at her home on July 21st, 2024, surrounded by her family and loved ones. Tammy was born at Independence Regional in Independence MO. Throughout her life, she was an active and beloved member of the Sunshine and Rainbow centers. Her involvement and contributions to these centers will always be remembered and cherished. Tammy was a graduate of Lake View Woods State School in 1983, where her mother Jackie worked hard for inclusion in schools.
Tammy brought joy and warmth to all who knew her. Her most precious gift was her love for Curious George. She cherished her group home and the wonderful people who worked and lived there, and who made her life there so special.
Tammy loved swimming at the Zarrillo house and often invited her grouphome friends to join. Holidays were always celebrated at the big brown house, filled with laughter and love. As a young girl, Tammy adored going away to camp and shared a close bond with her mom, spending countless cherished moments together.
Tammy is preceded in death by her mother, Jackie O'Dowd, her father, William Ben O'Dowd and brother in laws, Harold Alford and Paul Zarrillo. She is survived by her siblings, Vicki Zarrillo, Mark O'Dowd (Shelley) and Michelle Alford. Her nephews and nieces, Shawn O'Dowd (Heather), Christopher O'Dowd (Holly), Nicholas O'Dowd (Sara), Angie Judy (Matthew), Chante Burch, Tanya Alford, and her great nieces Alecia, Jasmine, Nora and her great nephew, Jack.
Tammy loved watching Curious George and would giggle with delight when her nephews and nieces joined her. She later discovered The Price is Right with Bob Barker and was thrilled when contestants won cars. Vicki fondly remembers pulling Tammy in a wagon for backyard picnics, making her feel like they were on grand adventures. Every Christmas, Tammy would ask her dad for a watch, and he always made sure she got one. When Mark worked at Zarda Dairy, he would bring her a scoop of ice cream, and her excitement was infectious. Michelle will never forget the morning Tammy excitedly announced it was
Christmas, only to find out Tammy had opened all the presents early and returned to her room, thinking it was Christmas day.
Tammy's spirit, love, and joy will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Please join us in celebrating Tammy's life on August 11th, 2024 from 1-3pm at Gudgell Park Church Lower Level- 500 E. Gudgell Ave Independence MO 64055