Tamara Gifford Keele's Obituary
With heartfelt gratitude for her life, we announce the passing of Tamara Gifford Keele. She passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on October 21, 2023 after a long battle with a neurological illness.
Tammy was known for her strong moral compass and high standard of honesty in all she did. She was a selfless wife and mother who hardly ever sat still—she was always cleaning, cooking, working, exercising, caring for her family, and serving faithfully at church.
Tammy was born on April 23, 1959 in Salt Lake City, Utah. She grew up in Henderson, Nevada as the seventh of eight children. She married Melvin Richard Keele Jr. (Dick) on June 15, 1978 in the Manti, Utah temple and they were happily married for 45 years. Dick’s fun loving and free spirit was perfectly balanced by Tammy’s practicality and steadiness. They made a great team together and raised their four children harmoniously. Dick and Tammy moved to Provo, UT in 1986 where they lived until she passed away. Tammy worked for 20 years at Rite-Aid pharmacy where she was beloved by both customers and coworkers.
Tammy was a perfectionist and ran an efficient household that was always clean and tidy. She was a great cook and her family loved to gather around the meals she created. She loved holidays and making her family members feel special with decorations, gifts, and words of love. She had a warm personality that made all who met her feel welcome and at ease.
Tammy was a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and had a strong testimony of the Book of Mormon and the temple. She served in many capacities and especially loved serving many years in the Young Women and Relief Society organizations. She was known as a compassionate and dependable force for good.
Tammy is survived by her husband and four children, Tom (Emily), Emily Barnett (Kameron), Brenton, and Ryan (Nichole). She is also survived by her eleven grandchildren. Her family wishes to thank staff from iCare, Aspen Senior Care, and MAG who helped care for Tammy for the past few years. We are grateful for your compassionate and competent care for Tammy and the support given to Dick who served tirelessly as her primary caregiver.
Funeral services will be on Saturday October 28th at the Valley Vista Chapel located at 1456 East 300 North in Provo, Utah. A viewing will be held from 10 am to 10:45 am and funeral services will begin at 11 am.
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