Tammy Ann Howe

If you were lucky enough to know Tammy Howe, you know she was one of a kind. A true small-town girl through and through, Tammy spent her whole life in Adel, Iowa — the place she loved most, surrounded by the people she loved most.

Tammy worked at Adel TV & Appliance since high school, right alongside her dad and brother. It was her first and only job, and it fit her perfectly — she got to talk to people all day, help them out, and watch generations of families come through the door. If someone brought a kid with them, you could bet she’d light up instantly. Tammy had that special gift of making everyone feel seen and at home.

It was actually at Adel TV & Appliance where she met Bret, the love of her life. They’ve been together for 30 years, building a beautiful life full of laughter, hard work, and memories that will live on forever. Together, they raised their children — Michelle ,Brandon, and William — their home became the hub for friends, family, and countless gatherings. Some of her fondest memories include lake days, camping trips, canoeing and 4-wheeling adventures — any chance to spend time outdoors with the ones she loved the most.

Tammy was the definition of creative — a “hippie child” at heart who believed in peace, love, and tie-dye. She loved to craft in her she-shed, surrounded by what her family lovingly called “nature crap.” Pinecones, sticks, rocks — nothing was safe if Tammy thought it might turn into a project. She had an eye for beauty in the simple things, and her imagination turned even the smallest find into something special.

She loved her vegetable garden, canning the fruits of her labor, and gifting those jars to anyone who popped into the store. She loved her pool, which she shared generously with everyone. If you were part of the extended circle of friends and family, chances are you’ve been to one of Tammy’s pool parties — full of laughter, splashing grandkids, and her famous hospitality.

But nothing meant more to Tammy than her grandchildren and grand nephews and nieces. They were her world. She did anything and everything with them — pool time, fort building, walks, and sidewalk chalk masterpieces (always including an American flag, of course). To them, she wasn’t just “EE” — she was fun, patient, silly, and endlessly loving.

Tammy was also deeply rooted in her community — her favorite being the annual Adel Sweet Corn Festival. She took great pride in serving corn alongside friends and family from the corn cooker her dad built — a true family legacy that connected generations.

Tammy was preceded in death by her parents, her father Kenny Chapman and Claudia Chapman. She is survived by her husband Bret; children Michelle, Brandon (McKenna), William; stepmother Linda; siblings Terry (Teresa), Teresa, Todd (Chris), KC (Emilee); 5 grandchildren, Cash, Jet, Beckett, Pearl, and Callan; 10 nieces and nephews, and 13 great nieces and nephews.

Tammy was the kind of person who helped without being asked, loved without limits, and made all feel welcomed. She was a second mom to many, and her door — and her heart — were always open.

She will be remembered for her generosity, her humor, her open heart, and her unwavering love for her family and hometown. The world feels quieter without her laugh, but her love will linger in every garden bloom, every grandkid giggle, and every rock and pinecone left behind.