Tara Ann Cates

Tara Ann Cates, the brightest shining light, and most loving soul; a beloved daughter, sister, mother, wife, and friend, passed away unexpectedly Friday, October 3rd, 2025, in Lexington, South Carolina.

Tara was known for her infectious laughter, adventurous spirit, incredibly thoughtful soul, and witty humor. One of her favorite pastimes was diving into a good book, especially if it meant out at one of her favorite spots, Lake Murray, where you would also see her working on her tan or spending time with her family and her dogs swimming amongst the waves. She had an undeniable love for the people around her, with a desire to understand them on the deepest, most profound levels. She put forth the biggest efforts just to make others smile. She loved love, and to love out loud, and as much as possible. She always put people before herself and cared immensely for other people's feelings. She was always an advocate for those that she loved. She gave the best advice and listened attentively. She often collected quotes, excerpts, recipes, craft ideas, snippets from magazines, short stories, and creative ideas for loved ones.

Tara loved watching movies, especially a spine-tingling horror, or of the complete opposite end, a brewing romance. She loved crime shows or anything that made you have to think outside of the box. Her love for horror she shared and passed down to her best friend and daughter, McKenna. They loved anything horror related, whether it be haunted houses, ghost tours hours away, or getting tons of snacks and watching a scary movie. You would definitely see the two out in costume together celebrating their favorite holiday, Halloween!

She adored her mini me. They were an inseparable duo that would do any and everything together. From playing Barbie's when they were younger to going out on the town together when McKenna was older. She raised her into the woman she is today and always strived to give her nothing but the best. She was a spectacular mentor and an even better mother.

She enjoyed playing games, no matter what kind, and was very skilled at them. She was fond of arts and crafts, even though she thought she wasn't very creative herself; she never failed to come up with and

execute the coolest ideas. She had a knack for fashion and would put on the cutest and sometimes quirkiest outfits, matched with accessories, hair, and makeup all done. She enjoyed a good deal; from going thrifting, to bargain stores, to waking up early to hit garage sales; she was there, ready to dig for goodies!

She was passionate about music and dancing. There's no doubt she's getting all the parties started up in Heaven. Not only was she adventurous, but she enjoyed being adventurous with the people she loved, from going to concerts, to riding roller coasters, to snow tubing. Down to getting cheap coffees, going out to see holiday decorations, and watching drive-in movies. The possibilities were endless.

Tara is survived by her spouse, Timothy Charles Cates, her one and only daughter McKenna Marie Cates, her parents, Sue Christine (Kiesling) Brecht and Harry Joseph Brecht Jr, and her brother Rick Phelan Brecht.

Born Tara Ann Brecht, on January 21st, 1977, in Mt Holly, New Jersey, the daughter to Harry and Sue Brecht, and sister to Rick Brecht. When Tara was still a baby, her family moved to Wytheville, Virginia, where she lived her early childhood years. Around 2nd grade, the family moved to Orangeburg, South Carolina, where she ultimately grew up. She attended Calhoun Academy where she played basketball and graduated with the Class of 1995. After high school, she attended Francis Marion University and graduated with the Class of 1999, with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science.

Tara moved to Columbia, South Carolina after graduation. She met and made friends that would introduce her to her future husband. She became the beloved Wife to Timothy Cates and the best friend and Number One Mama to daughter, McKenna Cates. All along the way, she continued to become a best friend to many. Tara always strived to be the truest and most authentic self she could be. She believed in being yourself to the fullest and never settling for less than what you deserve.

Although Tara's physical presence may no longer grace our lives, her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May her memory be a blessing, and may we carry forth her legacy of love and compassion in all that we do.

Celebration of Tara's life will be held on Wednesday, November the 12th, at 3:00pm. It will be located at the Columbia Sailing Club, with Paster Jerry Branham officiating and reading kind words from family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks plant lovers and friends to plant a flower, bush, fruit or vegetable, or other plant in honor of Tara Cates. She adored nature and never failed to see beauty in all things. Thank you, if you decide to do so.