Tamara Colleen King's Obituary
On May 19, 2026, Tamara C King (Tami) was released from the bondage of this world at Golden Age Nursing Home under the hospice care of Care Initiatives.
She was born on October 22, 1959 in Clinton, Iowa to Terrance and Beverly (Miller) King. From birth, she would reside with her grandparents, Glen and Betty Miller of Clinton, Iowa.
At conception, a special life would enter a world of disillusionary concepts in her mind. Due to mental disabilities, at age 16, she would live at various group homes in Iowa, frequently visiting with her grandparents.
In 2016 she moved to Centerville, Iowa to live under the care of Centerville community betterment for eight years. This was the happiest time in her life.
Tami's favorite color was "purple plum". Her laughter was as unique as her style of dancing. She was fascinated receiving gift bags stuffed with tissue paper, whether there was a present inside or not.
A bouquet of balloons was favored as long as they were "Mylar" balloons. Tami had claims on being the "Number One Fire Princess" as she frequently wore her red fire hat. Paw patrol held her interest, especially "Sparkey" the dog. Another "Sparkey" was her Ace Wrap roll, of any color, she constantly held as security. Just don't take it nor lose it!
The many Special Olympic medals brought joy and achievement to her heart.
Tami was protective of the other residence voicing her opinion if the staff couldn't fix their complaint "right now!" Her extensive vocabulary could become quite colorful when issues weren't corrected promptly in her timely manner.
Although limited in intellectual ability, she knew the names of every vehicle and flower. The QR code was a puzzle to solve.
Tammy loved and missed the Staff at Centerville Community Betterment when having to move to Acura Healthcare in Pleasantville, Iowa.
She will be missed by staff who understood her condition also forever missed by her aunt, Ellen and uncle, Dave Schoo, who were fierce advocates for her well-being.
There holds deep appreciation for her final care through Care Initiatives Hospice, Knoxville Hospital, Staff, and Golden Age Nursing Home.
An outstanding ovation for Sarah Casper, who was instrumental in Tami's care and getting her to Golden Age. Also, many other group home staff who were a positive influence in her life.
After every doctor appointment, Tami would say "I'm released!" Yes, you precious Dear One, you are released from this world. May your sleep be peaceful until you rise in God's kingdom on Earth as it is in heaven.
Preceded in death are Beverly (Miller) Price; grandparents, Glen and Betty Miller; aunt, Janice Wright; stepbrother, Corydon Rutledge.
Survivors are Clark Rutledge (Tabitha), uncle, Edwin Wright, aunt and uncle, Ellen and David Schoo; and many nieces and nephews.
Per wishes, cremation has been accorded. Private family burial will be held at Lyon's Cemetery, near Plano. Memorials have been established to either the Centerville Community Betterment or Care Initiatives Hospice, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: King Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at www.thomasfh.com or www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome .
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