Tammi Sue Smith

Tammi’s life was full of God's purpose, full of small ways in which her purpose was clear. Born on November 9th of 1961. Tammi's childhood was full of memories of her older siblings, Vicki, Brad, Jan, and Lonnie. As well as her parents Milton and Betty Gant. As the youngest sibling, her purpose was to teach each of them patience during these years.

Her faith in God and his forgiveness was a strong part of her conversations with many over the years. Her testimony of the events of her life, including struggling through mental health and substance abuse, became her testimony. Her purpose in this clearly gave many others a voice to express their own experiences and gave some the confidence to get help, leave dangerous situations and find sobriety themselves. She was always testifying about her life and how the decisions she made impacted her life. She inspired many to get help for abuse of drugs and to find humor in dark moments when the only other option was tears.

She was the caregiver for her parents and grandmother. She showed so much compassion, humor and love as she did this. She allowed them to experience the end of their life without fear, but rather with dignity and respect. Again, her purpose was clear.

Her relationships were a large part of her story. Through them, her purpose and lessons were to protect and cherish your marriage, to work hard to find the right partner and to keep them once found.

Tammi completed her LPN after working professionally as a caregiver for several years. She taught, learned and worked with many young people. Her purpose in this was to show that it’s never too late to change direction in life, to see the human being in medicine and to be willing to learn from anyone regardless of age.

Tammi routinely took in children and teens over the years, providing a stable home and gave them love. She cared for all 6 of her grandchildren until they started school leaving them all with memories of her Dutch Bros habit, her love for Orange Chicken from Panda Express and her endless energy for board games. She was able to show them God's love, the value of family and show them how to stop and play.

Tammi’s final months were spent doing what she loved; board games with family, bossing people around, watching tv and old movies, and of course, smoking. OH, AND DID A MENTION SHE WAS ONCE A MODEL...

Tammi Sue Gant Jensen Smith Rivera Rivera Smith passed away peacefully on August 16th, 2026, in full faith of returning to her Heavenly Father. Reuniting with Jack Wilson (her final love), her sister Jan, brother Brad, her parents and many friends. They had the party ready for her arrival.

Earth side she watches over her sisters Vicki Hewitt (Roger), Jeri Lee Gant, brother Lonnie Gant (Lisa), her daughters Sadie Derton (Thomas), Megan Woods (Jarrod), All her grandchildren Cooper, Carter, Ashton, Avery, Andi and Zach. Along with fosters children Abbie, Renee, and Vanessa. Many nieces and nephews, cousins, and other family/friends.

Her life was full of fun, laughter, and purpose. Please celebrate her by telling someone you love them today!