Tammy Lou Briggs, of Arkadelphia, Arkansas, was born on April 13, 1959, in Kinston, North Carolina, to Peggy Jo Gallaher Briggs and Clyde R. Briggs. She passed away on October 6, 2023, of sudden cardiac arrest.

Tammy is survived by her parents, her sister Tracy Briggs Calabrese of Houston, Texas, and her brother Farris R. Briggs (Kristie) of Atlanta, Georgia. Tammy grew up in McMinnville, Tennessee and graduated from Warren County Senior High School in 1978.

Tammy loved nothing more than visiting Branson, Missouri, to see Andy Williams perform. She also loved the Reddies, the North Carolina Tar Heels, and especially her Tennessee Vols and Lady Vols coach Pat Summitt. Among her prized possessions were basketballs autographed by Coach Pat Summitt and North Carolina Coach Dean Smith.

For many years, Tammy was a big part of life on Riverside Drive and Cherry Street in Arkadelphia; she loved interacting with her friends all along the way as she walked her beloved dogs, Schatzli, Gabby, and Molly Summitt. Anytime you went somewhere with Tammy, it was obvious that she was widely known and loved. Tammy loved special occasions such as birthdays and Christmas, and she took such care in selecting the perfect gifts.

In her later years, Tammy enjoyed visits with her aunt Elizabeth Briggs Barnes from Raleigh, N.C. Tracy and Farris feel privileged to have witnessed their parents’ incredible devotion to and care of Tammy throughout her life.

Tammy’s family wishes to express their appreciation for the many kindnesses and friendships from the people in her neighborhood. They also wish to express their appreciation for the love and care given to Tammy at Encore Healthcare in Malvern.

When you remember Tammy, please remember her quick sense of humor, her amazing recall of facts, her love for people, her generous spirit, and her beautiful smile.

In lieu of flowers, her family suggests a donation in her memory to the Humane Society of Clark County, the First United Methodist Church of Arkadelphia, or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements for a memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Final arrangements are entrusted to The Welch Funeral Home of Arkadelphia. Visit www.welchfh.net to sign the guest book.