Tamara Jean Richardson (Tammy)

Tamara Jean (King) Richardson passed away on February 14, 2021, following a courageous 4-year journey with pancreatic cancer. Tammy was born on February 7, 1964 to Wanda (King) Backus and Wayne King in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Tammy attended Brownsburg High School and graduated in 1982.  She went on to study at Indiana Business College and worked as office manager at Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery with co-workers whom she considered family.

Tammy is often described by friends and family (and even her doctors) as "the kindest person I've ever known." Tammy made everyone who knew her—whether for a brief encounter or a lifetime of friendship—a better, more compassionate human being. A person of deep faith, she treasured her church family at Connection Pointe Christian Church. She loved adventure and could turn an ordinary event into a joyous and unforgettable moment.  She was an avid Indianapolis Colts fan and season ticket holder, often donning Colts gear from head to toe while in attendance.  She enjoyed travel and committed to visiting all 50 states shortly after her diagnosis which she accomplished.  Her favorite vacation spot was any place that included a beach, and she reveled in time spent at her get-away home at Rocky Fork Lake. She was a devoted mother and grandmother creating countless memories for her young grandchildren ensuring that traditions were a main stay in their young lives.

Tammy lived a life of service and gave with great enthusiasm to causes that she cared about.  Prior to her diagnosis, and beyond, she was a pivotal member of the team that hosted the "Striking Out Breast Cancer" annual softball fundraiser in Brownsburg, Ind. She also participated regularly in PanCAN's "Purple Stride: Walk to End Pancreatic Cancer" in Indianapolis. She navigated her journey with cancer as she lived her life prior to her diagnosis; with courage, enthusiasm, compassion, selflessness and boundless energy.  She touched countless lives with her capacity to live every moment to the fullest and generously shared her challenges and milestones to help others on a similar path.

Tammy is survived by her beloved husband of 36 years Timothy Richardson of Indianapolis; mother, Wanda Backus King of Indianapolis; daughter Meagan Mathis (and husband Ryan) of Indianapolis; grandchildren, Houston and Raelynn Mathis (of Indianapolis); brother Matt King (and wife Gina) of Avon; numerous nephews and nieces: Brandon, Trevor, Candy, Chris, Vince, Dylan, Shannon, Johnny, Justin, Jason, Teah, Zach, Alex, Morgan, Karlye, Taylor, Hailey, Hannah, Haiden, Carter, Emma; as well as countless extended family members and dear friends.  Tammy was preceeded in death by her father, Wayne King; nephew, Bradley King and grandparents.

Visitation will be from 4-7pm Thursday February 18 at Matthews Mortuary. Funeral and Celebration of Life services will be at 10am Friday February 19 at Connection Pointe Christian Church (Enter through Door 10).  Burial will follow in St. Malachy Cemetery. All locations are in Brownsburg, Ind. If attending please wear bright colors to celebrate her life in accordance with Tammy's wishes.

In compliance with current regulations and restrictions, guests are required to wear masks and observe social distancing.  Contributions may be made to www.pancan.org