Tamela Leigh Ann Sise Sanders-Line
Tamela Leigh Ann Sise Sanders-Line, a cherished longtime resident of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 2, 2025.
She was born on Oct. 12, 1974, to Herbert and Peggy (Zirk) Sise in Chattanooga. Tamela’s life was a profound testament to faith, resilience and love. She graduated from Ooltewah High School, class of 1992, where she was an active and enthusiastic member of the band and winter guard program throughout all four years. Tamela pursued higher education at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, earning a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice. During her college years, she performed with Chimeras, an independent winter guard based in Murfreesboro, TN, showcasing her dedication and talent.
As a young athlete, Tamela excelled in Softball, playing second base and leading off for the Astros, a highly competitive travel team. Her quickness, petite statue and switch-hitting skills made her a standout player, reflecting her determination and spirited nature.
In 1999, Tamela faced a severe stroke that brought significant physical challenges. Yet, her indomitable spirit shone through as she adapted and continued to live a full life. In 2002, she married Jeffery (Cooper) Lynn Sanders, a union that highlighted her resilience and capacity for love despite adversity. After Jeffrey’s untimely passing in 2010, Tamela’s heart found renewal with Stephen Gilbert Line. They were married on July 12, 2015, and Stephen often recalled falling in love with her at first sight – a love that brought her joy and companionship on a deep level.
In 2022, Tamela endured another stroke, with the doctors offering a grim prognosis. Once again, her faith and the support of her family carried her through. She continued to share laughter, tears and cherished memories, always pointing to Jesus as her source of strength. When asked “Who loves you?” she would lift her eyes heavenward, silently affirming her unwavering trust in the Lord.
Tamela’s deep Christian faith was the cornerstone of her existence. As a devoted member of Abba’s House in Hixson, she found immense joy in singing praises to the Lord, a remarkable feat given her aphasia – a condition that impaired her speech but not her ability to worship through song. Her love for Jesus radiated through her warm smile, genuine humility and legendary hugs, which many described as healing and unforgettable. She dedicated herself to intercessory prayer, lifting up those who were hurting, oppressed or in need, embodying a sweet and solid spirit that touched countless lives.
Tamela’s life was a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity through faith, love and perseverance. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, resiliency and redemption that will continue to inspire all who knew her. Upon entering heaven, we can envision her hearing the words, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Tamela was preceded in death by her mother, Peggy Ann Sise Zirk; her father, Herbert Lee Roy Sise and her first husband, Jeffery Lynn Sanders.
She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of nine years, Stephen Gilbert Line; her sisters, Angela Dawn Sise and Stephanie Renee Sise and her husband, Chris Adams; her brother, Aaron Matthew Sise and his wife, Amy; a wide circle of nieces, nephews, cousins and a host of friends who will forever cherish her memory.
The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 8, at the funeral home.
A Celebration of Tamela’s Life will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 8, in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Angie McGregor officiating. Interment will follow in Hamilton Memorial Gardens.
To share your memories of Tamela, please visit https://www.hamiltonfhofchattanooga.com/obituary/tamela-sanders-line
Arrangements are by Hamilton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson, Tn. 37343, 423 531-3975.