Tamara Smith

Tamara Smith, born Tamara Busby, passed away on August 31, 2026, in Terrell, Texas. She was born on October 8, 1956, in Houston, Texas, and will be remembered as a woman whose love for family and community touched many lives.

Tamara was known for the joy she found in the people she loved most. She loved being a wife, nurse for 45 years, nana and treasured her children, 24 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren. Her warmth reached far beyond her own family, and she became a “Nana” to the community as well. She was surrounded by many friends who loved her, and she shared close, lasting relationships with coworkers over many years. She enjoyed shopping, loved her soap operas, and was known for the familiar words she often spoke: “Blessed Be.” To many throughout Kaufman and Hunt counties, she was lovingly known as Aunt Tammy.

Above all, Tamara’s life was centered on family. She is survived by her husband, Jerry Smith Sr., and by her children, daughters, Glenda White and husband Billy, Melinda Wade and husband, Chris, son, Jerry Smith III, and wife Amanda Lewis. Her circle of loved ones also includes her niece, Tiffany Lea Mendoza, and her lifelong friend, Jimmy Miller, whose enduring friendship was a treasured part of her life. She also had her precious dog, Marley Jean and cat, Daisy Mae, they will surely miss her love. The love Tamara gave so freely will continue to live on in all of them, as well as in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were such an important part of her heart.

She was preceded in death by her father, William Busby; her mother, Mona Carter Busby; her sister, Shirley Busby; her nephew, Eddy Wayne; and her son, William Thomas.

Tamara will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her generous heart, her devotion to those she loved, and the comfort of her familiar presence. Her life leaves behind a lasting imprint of love, friendship, and family, and her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.